Welcome to the first blog edition of The Lab Report! Originally launched as our monthly newsletter, The Lab Report features the latest news, updates, and opportunities from the Nebraska Early Childhood Collaborative. We’re now sharing those same updates here on our blog and making it even easier to stay connected. Want to receive each edition in your inbox first? Subscribe here.
With that, let’s take a look at what’s been happening across NECC this month.
1) Annual Fund Campaign Underway
Now is a great time to join our Annual Fund campaign. Your support helps us build momentum throughout the year and into the end-of-year giving season. Yard signs are available at NECC, and we would love your help spreading the word. If you’re interested in displaying a sign, contact our team to arrange pickup, or click here to make a direct donation!
Call: 531-999-3900
Email: marketing@nebraskaearly.org
2) Parent Ambassador Sam Dov Receives Media Attention
NECC Parent Ambassador Class of 2026 graduate Sam Dov recently received great media attention! The stories highlight his journey from appearing in mugshots to meeting with elected officials and advocating for Nebraska families. Through NECC’s Parent Ambassador Program, Sam built partnerships, advocated alongside policymakers, and expanded his leadership. Read some of Sam’s stories:
- Cuts for a Cause: Meet the Lincoln Barber Trading Trims for Diapers (Flatwater Free Press)
- Reimagining the Structure: Panel Says Lincoln’s Child Care Crisis Needs Evaluating From All Sides (Nebraska News Service)
- “The Children Are Counting on Us”: Experts Discuss Solutions to Nebraska’s Child Care Crisis (1011 NOW)
- Lincoln’s Child Care Crisis (Prosper Lincoln)
3) Monica and Skylar Christensen Represent Nebraska at Strolling Thunder
Monica Christensen, Education Coach at NECC, and her daughter, Skylar, proudly represented Nebraska at the Think Babies Strolling Thunder event in Washington, D.C. Only one family from each state was selected to participate, so having Monica represent Nebraska was an honor. The annual event brings families together to meet with members of Congress and advocate for policies that support infants, toddlers, and their families. During the trip, Monica and Skylar even had the opportunity to meet Nancy Pelosi!
4) Seven Child Care Providers Earn Their Licenses
Seven child care providers earned their operational child care licenses over the past two months. Through NECC’s Licensing Toolkit Program, our Child Care Business Specialists provided guidance, encouragement, and expertise every step of the way. From navigating licensing requirements to preparing for inspections, these providers received personalized support to help them open high-quality child care programs that will serve children and families across Nebraska.
5) Elevate 2026 Leaves a Lasting Impact
- 62% of attendees were first-time attendees.
- 30 cities and 59 ZIP codes were represented.
- 100% of attendees agreed that the networking opportunities at Elevate facilitated meaningful connections and enhanced their knowledge and skills.
“I loved being here and feeling heard. I will value what I learned.”
— Anissa Sauceda, Elevate 2026 attendee
6) 500 Child Care Providers Gain Access to Wellness Resources
Following a successful first year, Healthy Rest, Happy Nest has returned to support 500 Nebraska child care providers. Through NECC’s partnerships with Alpaca and Best Care EAP, the program removes cost barriers to wellness by providing confidential counseling, legal and financial support, well-being check-ins, appreciation resources, and other tools that help educators feel supported both personally and professionally.
7) Summer Learning Continues Across Nebraska
Summer learning is underway, with 54 early childhood educators enrolled across NECC’s Business Training Series and CDA Prep Course cohorts. This summer, the Child Care Network team is focused on continuing to expand program access for Spanish-speaking providers through our Essentials for Early Educators program and NECC Learning Library eLearning courses!
About the Nebraska Early Childhood Collaborative
At the Nebraska Early Childhood Collaborative, we’re investing in the early childhood landscape through innovation, collaboration, and service – strengthening families, businesses, and Nebraska. Support our mission at nebraskaearly.org/donate