From Policy to Practice: Building Early Childhood Systems That Listen

What would early childhood policy look like if it truly listened to educators, families, and communities?

In this episode of The Council Table, Dr. Calvin E. Moore, Jr. sits down with Yvette Sanchez Fuentes, Vice President of National Policy at Start Early and former Director of the Office of Head Start under the Obama Administration. Together, they explore how federal and state systems can better align with the realities of classrooms, childcare programs, and communities across the country.

From Head Start to home visiting, Yvette shares lessons from decades of experience bridging policy and practice, reminding us that the most effective systems are those shaped by the people closest to the work.

In this episode:
• How local voices can shape national early childhood policy
• Lessons from the reauthorization of the home visiting program
• Why consistency and community leadership drive real change
• The enduring impact of the CDA credential on workforce advancement

✨ Policy that listens. Practice that leads. Every voice matters.

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Website: www.councilcan.org
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///About the Council for Professional Recognition///

The Council for Professional Recognition promotes improved performance and recognition of professionals in the early childhood education of children ages birth to 5 years old. The Council recognizes and credentials professionals who work in all types of early care and education settings including Head Start, pre-k, infant-toddler, family childcare, and home visitor programs. As a nonprofit organization, the Council sets policies and procedures for assessment and credentialing. To date, close to one million Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials have been issued around the world. For more information, visit: https://www.cdacouncil.org/