“Massachusetts is inviting families to join the first formal statewide Family Advisory Council. The council is designed to strengthen the connection between families, educators, and policymakers,” News10 reports.
“Families from every region of Massachusetts are encouraged to apply. Applications are now open on the Department of Early Education and Care’s (EEC) website.”
“Government works better when we listen to families — plain and simple,” Governor Maura Healey says in a press release. “Their lived experience is essential to building systems and designing programs and policies that are responsive to the needs of every child in Massachusetts.”
Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler adds, “Engaging directly with parents and caregivers will offer invaluable insights that help us understand what communities need and how our policies affect them on the ground. We look forward to deepening this partnership and strengthening the support we provide to young children across Massachusetts.”
The deadline for applying to the Family Advisory Council (FAC) is February 13, 2026. Applications and role descriptions are available on EEC’s website in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, and simplified Chinese, and Portuguese.
Council members’ responsibilities will include:
- attending one-hour, monthly meetings, held virtually and in person as needed
- finalizing the FAC’s structure and charter
- sharing EEC information and opportunities with networks and communities
- supporting efforts to increase family engagement with EEC programs, and
- participating in professional development and leadership-building activities
Council members will receive a $59 stipend for each meeting. This stipend does not require tax reporting.
As EEC Commissioner Amy Kershaw explains, “This Council will ensure that parents, caregivers, and guardians across the Commonwealth have a meaningful seat at the table and help shape the policies that impact them every day. We are grateful to every family that steps forward to contribute their experience and perspective.”