That kind of practice is a hallmark of NAEYC. How did you learn about the association?
It was 10 or 11 years ago. One of our coaches came to visit me, and we started talking about NAEYC. I knew I had to be part of it. NAEYC is such a wealth of information. I’ ve had the opportunity to attend two national conferences. NAEYC is where I learned about developmentally appropriate practice. The emphasis on families is a real asset: There are so many journal articles about partnering with families that we use in our professional learning.
NAEYC is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. What does the centennial mean to you?
It’ s a moment of reflection and a call to action. This anniversary means continuing to fight to ensure that young children are seen as capable learners and that early learning environments are grounded in developmentally appropriate practice, equity, and inclusion. NAEYC’ s early learning standards, position statements, and emphasis on play-based, child-centered learning have shaped how I approach teaching and leadership. Every child, regardless of their background, must have access to joyful, meaningful learning experiences.
You’ ve been in the early childhood education field for several years, and you’ ve served in a variety of roles. What are some of the challenges you see?
One of the biggest issues is funding. We continue to hear about federal cuts, but these children are our future! How can we cut from our future?
You’ ve taught, coached, led, and advocated— both here and abroad. What’ s next for you?
I want to make sure children continue to have what they need, and the only way we can do that is by continuing to support teachers, leaders, and families. I tell my teachers and assistant principals,“ You’ re moving on to your next positions, and you will continue to enhance this work. When I retire, I’ m going to come work for you!”
Photographs: courtesy of Kiri Laurelle Davis. Copyright © 2026 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. See permissions and reprints online at NAEYC. org / resources / permissions.
14 Educating Young Children
Summer 2026