WAEYC

We would like to take a moment to pause and acknowledge educators, providers, caregivers, and community members who show up every single day for children and families across Washington. Our community is stronger because of the Black, Indigenous, Latino, Asian, Pacific Islander, immigrant, multilingual, people with disabilities, and rural children, families, and educators who contribute to and shape early care and education in Washington State. 

WAEYC reaffirms our commitment to an anti-racist, culturally responsive, and community rooted early learning system. WAEYC commits to naming and challenging the inequities that impact our workforce and the children we serve and act on behalf of the needs, rights, and well-being of all children as set forth by NAEYC. We value service to children, which is based on knowledge of children’s development and an understanding of the importance of the child’s family, culture, and community.

Our Values guide how we show up in this moment: 

We are true to inclusiveness not just in words but in action. We value the worth, uniqueness, and contributions of every person in our early learning community. This means centering voices historically excluded from decision making, especially educators and providers whose lived experiences are essential to shaping policy and practices. 

WAEYC works towards a future where equity and Anti-racism  is non-negotiable, for the children and for the people who care for them. Our early learning providers protect, teach, and nurture our most vulnerable little humans every single day, often in their own homes and communities. No matter the color of their skin, their language, their culture, or where they live, they deserve dignity, and support. Our vision for children requires research, ethical leadership, accountability, and the courage to pursue real social change. That means standing firmly with providers and educators when systems fail them. We commit to using our platform to uplift their voices, confront harmful or inequitable policies, and advocate for the resources, compensation, and protections they need to thrive- because their well-being directly impacts the well-being of every child in Washington State.