Advocacy

Advocating for Early Childhood Education in Alliance, Ohio and Beyond

Every child deserves a strong start, and at ECEA, we wholeheartedly believe that begins with ensuring families have access to affordable, high-quality early learning opportunities. Advocacy is a core part of how we work toward that goal.

ECEA is honored to advocate on behalf of our youngest learners at the local, state, and federal levels. We raise awareness about the importance of early childhood education, share community stories with decision-makers, and help shape policies that put children and families first.

Whether meeting with legislators, attending statewide forums, or speaking out at the Ohio Statehouse, our team champions equity, access, and affordability in early education. We are proud to collaborate with partners across the state, including Groundwork Ohio, The Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children, The National Association for the Education of Young Children, The Ohio Department of Children and Youth, and the Ohio Children’s Hospital Association, who share our commitment to strengthening outcomes for young children.

One meaningful example of this work was our participation in the Vote for OHIO KIDS Leadership Forum in Columbus, Ohio. This nonpartisan event brought together early childhood advocates from across the state to highlight the critical need for investment in early learning – and to ensure that Ohio’s gubernatorial candidates understood the lifelong impact of early experiences. Liz also serves on the Ohio Early Learning & Child Care Advisory Council and the NAEYC Public Policy Council that advocates for early childhood education at the national level.

ECEA’s advocacy efforts are grounded in both research and compassion. We listen to families, elevate their voices, and work to remove barriers so that every child – regardless of zip code or background – can access the early learning experiences they need to succeed.

We invite you to join us in speaking up for children. When we advocate together, we create real change – for our families, our schools, and our entire community.