New Mexico's Universal Childcare with Debra Rinell (Day 2)

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What resonated most with me was her recognition that meaningful childcare reform cannot happen unless providers are not only given a seat at the table, but are genuinely listened to as partners in the process.

Much of the morning focused on an overview of New Mexico's universal childcare system, presented by Secretary Elizabeth Groginsky of the Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD). New Mexico's approach is noteworthy not only because childcare is available regardless of income, but because the state has made a long-term financial commitment to sustaining the system. Funding is supported through distributions from the state's Land Grant Permanent Fund, following voter approval of a constitutional amendment in 2022. The state also established the nation's first cabinet-level Early Childhood Education and Care Department, creating a unified structure for early learning programs and services.

Washington's delegation represented a broad cross-section of stakeholders, including childcare providers, nonprofit leaders, legislators, funders, and representatives from the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). Conversations were generally positive and productive, although there were moments of tension as providers raised concerns about existing policies and agency practices.

Some providers were characterized as being "negative" toward the agency. From my perspective, however, many of the questions raised reflected legitimate concerns grounded in experience. One topic that surfaced repeatedly was how Washington would protect childcare funding from eventually being redirected toward K-12 programs should a dedicated funding source ever be established.

Providers' concerns are not without historical context. Many still remember the rapid implementation of full-day kindergarten, followed by Transitional Kindergarten, both of which significantly affected private childcare programs. More recently, public school districts have expanded childcare offerings, creating additional questions about funding priorities and the differing requirements imposed on public-school-operated programs versus private providers.

Another interesting moment came when New Mexico representatives learned that their licensing rule book is approximately 68 pages, while Washington's exceeds 190 pages. One New Mexico participant jokingly asked, "What could possibly require 192 pages?" The comment was met with chuckles, but the question prompted serious reflection about regulatory complexity and whether it ultimately serves children, families, and providers.

Perhaps the most telling observation of the day came from a New Mexico representative who remarked that listening to Washington's questions helped them realize just how far their state has come.

What strikes me most is that this is not a partisan issue. Both New Mexico and Washington are predominantly Democratic states. Yet one has successfully expanded childcare access to families regardless of income while the other is discussing reductions in support and funding. The difference appears less about ideology and more about priorities, political will, and sustained investment.

Tomorrow morning concludes our visit. My hope is that Washington's policymakers, agencies, funders, and providers leave with a deeper understanding of what is possible when all stakeholders work toward a shared goal. As Secretary Groginsky reminded us, "We all rise together" is more than a slogan—it is a commitment.

After 36 years as a Washington childcare provider, I remain hopeful for the future of our profession and the families we serve. At the same time, I recognize the significant challenges ahead. Washington was once viewed as a national leader in early learning initiatives such as Early Achievers and has long expressed a commitment to supporting working families. 

The question before us now is whether we are willing to make the bold policy choices necessary to turn that commitment into reality.