Nebraska’s premier early childhood leadership initiative, the Early Childhood Policy Leadership Academy (PLA), recently celebrated the completion of its 2024-25 program in Columbus. This milestone marks another step forward in strengthening early childhood and maternal health systems across the state. A total of 22 advocates from various sectors, including early childhood education, public health, economic development and civic organizations completed the six-month program.
These new graduates now become part of an extensive network of over 180 PLA alumni working tirelessly to improve early childhood and maternal health policy in communities across Nebraska. As the demand for high-quality, accessible child care opportunities and pre-natal needs continue to grow, these advocates are stepping up to drive meaningful change.
At its core, the PLA is designed to empower citizen-advocates by equipping them with the necessary tools to influence public policy effectively. Participants receive hands-on training in public policy, strategic engagement and data analysis, enabling them to build relationships with decision makers and create momentum for lasting change.
Throughout the program, PLA participants collaborate with experts to deepen their understanding of Nebraska’s early childhood and pre-natal landscape. This work is essential as they advocate for policies that promote the well-being of Nebraska families and communities. By fostering important areas, PLA graduates play a pivotal role in shaping the future of early childhood education and care in Nebraska.
Since its launch in 2018, the PLA has been spearheaded by First Five Nebraska (FFN), a nonpartisan organization dedicated to advancing early childhood and maternal health policy. Through PLA, FFN continues to provide a robust platform for individuals passionate about advocating for young children and their families.
FFN Director Jason Prokop emphasized the importance of this work, particularly as the state approaches a pivotal legislative session. “A robust early childhood and maternal health infrastructure is the cornerstone of Nebraska’s future,” said Prokop. “There has never been a more urgent time for citizen-advocates, including this year’s PLA graduates, to step up and actively contribute to shaping the policy solutions that will drive our state forward.”
His remarks highlight the critical role PLA graduates play in influencing policies at both the local and state levels.
Leading the PLA since 2021, Jodi-Renee Girón, FFN’s Grassroots and Advocacy Advisor, brings more than 20 years of experience in advocacy and movement building. She has played a key role in shaping the program’s impact and guiding participants in translating their knowledge into action.
“PLA graduates are already making a tangible difference,” Girón noted. “They are actively building partnerships and working alongside public and private advocates to tackle critical early childhood and prenatal challenges in their communities.”
This hands-on approach ensures that graduates do more than just learn about policy—they become active changemakers, capable of leading efforts to improve early childhood care and education across Nebraska.
The Future of Early Childhood Advocacy in Nebraska
As the state continues to navigate the complex challenges of early childhood education, the need for dedicated advocates remains more pressing than ever. PLA graduates are uniquely positioned to change the narrative around early childhood and prenatal issues in their communities and across the state.
The 2025-26 PLA program will run from October 2025 to March 2026, with a competitive selection process ensuring a diverse and engaged group of participants. Applications will be open from May 5 to July 18.
With the next PLA application window just around the corner, now is the time for passionate individuals to step forward and become part of this transformative movement. If you’re ready to make a difference in early childhood policy, consider applying to join the next cohort of the PLA and be a catalyst for meaningful change in Nebraska’s communities.
