DEY is excited to announce the launch of our Regional Childhood Defenders Working Groups, aimed at bringing together early childhood educators, advocates, and parents to promote our advocacy campaign. These groups will serve as a platform for local coalitions to work together to build awareness, educate elected officials, and support guidelines and implementation requirements that restore the link between high quality and child development. As a national nonprofit organization, DEY is committed to supporting local advocates in their efforts to create change at the state and local levels. We invite you to apply to join a group or serve as a co-facilitator and help us make a difference in the lives of young children.

Did you miss our webinar with Susan Linn? Well, be sure to check out the recording (click image below)! Susan Linn discussed her new book, Who's Raising the Kids: Big Tech, Big Business, and the Lives of Children, with DEY Executive Director Denisha Jones. Susan Linn is a renowned psychologist and advocates for children's well-being, and her book offers a compelling analysis of the ways in which technology and commercialism are influencing the lives of young people.

In the latest episode of Conscious Pathways, Brittney Carey sits down with Dr. Denisha Jones to discuss the powerful book Black Lives Matter at School, which she co-edited. Dr. Jones, Executive Director of Defending the Early Years and a passionate advocate for education justice, draws from her experience as a former kindergarten teacher, preschool director, and teacher educator to highlight the importance of early education in addressing educational equity. They also delve into the imperative for teacher preparation programs to equip educators with the necessary tools to support diverse classrooms effectively. With her wealth of insights into dismantling the neoliberal assault on public education, Dr. Jones, offers a thought-provoking conversation that is not to be missed. Tune in to Conscious Pathways to learn more.

Season 2 of the DEY Podcast with Kisha Reid has come to a close, and this season featured incredible guests such as Teacher Tom, Melinda Marshall, Rukia Rogers, and many more, each sharing their unique perspectives on early childhood education. We want to know, which guest was your favorite? Let us know in the comments! 

We also want to share that Season 3 of the DEY Podcast with Kisha Reid will premiere in January 2024. We can't wait to bring you even more inspiring conversations and insights from leaders in the field. In the meantime, check out Season 2, Episode 18 with Kisa Marx, available now on all major podcast platforms. Thank you for your continued support of the DEY Podcast with Kisha Reid!

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Congratulations to our latest mini-grant recipients. Our next round of applications closes on March 1st.

• Sarah Moline of Bloomington Public Schools Early Learning Services, Bloomington, MN
• Audrey Debri of Cedar Springs Public Schools in Cedar Springs, MI.
• Amanda Flayer and Mya Smith of Puerta Abierta School in Santiago Atitlan, Guatemala
• Ann Gascon of Early Childhood Professionals Organization, Wichita, KS