Here is our monthly dose of “5-Bullet-Point Friday” a list of NJAEYC public policy stuff we think you might be interested in.
Anything that is BLUE, just click on it for more details
What’s going on in the US
In light of a proposal for universal Pre-K throughout the country, the Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) is working to equip policymakers and key stakeholders with detailed policy solutions that are responsive to the needs of young children and their families. Without thoughtful implementation, a proposal for universal Pre-K could impact the country’s child care system, particularly for infants, toddlers, and their families. Families need access to early care and education that supports their ability to work and their children’s healthy development now, more than ever. Policy solutions that support a mixed delivery system, by offering Pre-K in community-based child care programs, can support a robust child care market and ensure families have access to early care and education that works for them. Watch BPC’s new video, “The Right Direction: Mixed Delivery Early Care and Education” to learn more.
To read more click here:
The Right Direction: Mixed Delivery Early Care and Education | Bipartisan Policy Center
What’s going on in NJ
On September 20, 2021, Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 264, requiring all child care center personnel to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by November 1 or be subject to COVID-19 testing at minimum one to two times per week. Additionally, effective September 24, and in accordance with CDC recommendations, the Order also clarifies that all employees, visitors, students, and children aged two and over must wear facemasks indoors, with limited exceptions. These requirements will strengthen protections against COVID-19 to children in these settings who are all under 12 years old and not yet eligible for vaccination.
To read more click here:
https://nj.gov/infobank/eo/056murphy/pdf/EO-264.pdf
Governor Also Announces $17 Million in Funds to Bring High-Quality Pre-K to 19 More School Districts:
Building on his commitment to expand early childhood education in New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy today announced that the state will commit to providing universal pre-K to all families across the state over the next several years. Today’s round of funding establishes or expands high-quality pre-K programs in 19 additional school districts across the state. The Department of Education will develop a Strategic Plan that will sets a roadmap for further pre-K expansion throughout the state.
To read more click here: Office of the Governor | Governor Murphy Announces Commitment to Universal Pre-K for New Jersey (nj.gov)
What’s coming up
2021 NJAEYC Annual State Conference
“The Comeback Conference” – We’re back, don’t miss out on the 2021 NJAEYC Annual State Conference, on October 21, 2021. We are returning to our in-person format with a great selection of speakers and special guests. NJAEYC hopes to see you all there but register early as space will be limited!
To register click here: 2021 Annual Conference Registration | NJAEYC
Mark Your Calendar! The NAEYC Virtual Annual Conference dates have been announced and will be held Sunday, November 7 through Tuesday, November 9 with a special preview day on Saturday, November 6.
To read more click here: Annual Conference | NAEYC
Something you might like
Sunday, August 22 was the 25th anniversary of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. TANF offers families assistance to help bridge the gap, however few families who could benefit from the program’s basic receive assistance. There appears to be continued lower allocations of TANF funds in states with higher populations of Black and other families of color. To recognize this important moment and to dig into the impacts of our economic assistance policies, ZERO TO THREE has developed a fact sheet taking a look at TANF in its 25th year and its role in the lives of babies in poverty.
To read more click here:
TANF at 25: Poverty Remains High Among the Nation’s Babies, But Few are Assisted • ZERO TO THREE
Quote we’re pondering
“Investing in early childhood education lays the foundation for a bright future for our early learners.” Governor Phil Murphy, Thursday, September 16, 2021 (Announcement)
Have a wonderful weekend!
NJAEYC Public Policy Team
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