The New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD) recently announced changes to its Early Childhood Education and Care Advisory Council. Aisha Smith, Head Start Collaboration Office Director, has been appointed as the chair of the council. She will be supported by vice chairs Nicole DuBuisson, Vice President of Early Childhood Investment Zones and Nadine Livingston, Tribal Liaison for the ECECD.
This council works under the authority originally granted by the Early Childhood Education and Care Act of New Mexico. Aisha Smith expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "I am excited to take on this new leadership role and guide the council's work." She emphasized the council's ongoing commitment to enhancing early childhood education in New Mexico.
Another key change is the addition of four new members to the council. These new members are involved across different areas of early childhood education and include Dr. Luis Rodriguez, representing the University of New Mexico; Christine Gutierrez, a family childcare home provider from Gallup; Rashida Hasan, a Taos-based pediatrician; and Jennifer Salos, a parent educator in Carlsbad.
Keith Gibson, Chairman of the ECECD, stated, "The new members bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the council that will positively impact early childhood education in the state." The council will continue to focus on identifying and prioritizing statewide early childhood needs as part of its mandate.
The council holds the responsibility of advising the Department on the development and implementation of policies. It also focuses on programs and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of childhood education and care in New Mexico.
