Rep. Doreen Gallegos Hosts Early Childhood Reception in Doña Ana County

Doña Ana County, NM – On January 7th, State Representative Doreen Gallegos hosted an early childhood reception that brought together key stakeholders in early childhood care and education. The event featured Secretary Elizabeth Groginsky of the Department of Early Childhood Education and Care, her staff, and several childhood care providers from Doña Ana County.

The reception served as a platform to discuss legislative and budget priorities for the upcoming 60-day legislative session, addressing the critical needs and challenges facing early childhood care providers in New Mexico. Additionally, the group highlighted innovative programs and services in the county and explored strategies to strengthen partnerships between state leaders and local providers.

“This event was an opportunity to connect those on the front lines of early childhood care in our community and understand their continued needs,” said Rep. Gallegos. “By working collaboratively with the Secretary and local providers, we can ensure that every child in Doña Ana County, and throughout New Mexico, has access to high quality education and care.”

Rep. Gallegos and Secretary Groginsky expressed their continued gratitude for the dedication of early childhood care providers, for the opportunity to hear directly from them about the challenges they face, and conveyed both of their ongoing resolve to further improve the state of early childhood care and education throughout the New Mexico.

Rep. Gallegos’ interest in early childhood education dates back years in her role as a social worker. She was also the House sponsor of the Early Childhood Education and Care Trust Fund in 2020. The fund is now the third largest permanent fund in the State of New Mexico which now stands at $8.3 billion as of late October 2024.