New Chapter for ECE Voices, and I’m Excited to Lead It!

Hello ECE Voices Community,

My name is Alicia Castaneda Hatfield, and I’m honored to join EveryChild California as your Government Relations Coordinator. I will help lead ECE Voices into its next chapter, and this work is deeply personal to me. I'm thrilled to step into this role at such a pivotal moment for our field.

From Policy Halls to Playrooms: My Journey to You

My background is rooted in social work, and for more than a decade, I’ve been dedicated to advancing policies that uplift children, families, and the professionals who serve them. I've worked in advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels, including time in the California State Legislature and the U.S. Congress, focusing on education, health, and family policy. Along the way, I’ve built coalitions, collaborated with diverse stakeholders, and fought to ensure that the voices of those most impacted are at the center of every policy conversation.

I also come to this role with firsthand experience, working directly with children and families, having spent time in school social work and as a professional nanny. I understand the creativity, dedication, and persistence it takes to show up for children every single day, often while navigating immense challenges. This lived experience drives my commitment to you and to this work.

Lived Experience Meets Legislative Action

In this role, my goal is simple but powerful: to listen deeply, learn from your experiences, and work alongside you to ensure that early childhood educators are heard, respected, and valued in California’s policy decisions. I believe the strongest advocacy comes from lived experience, and that's exactly what ECE Voices is here to amplify.

We have exciting plans for ECE Voices this September, and I cannot wait to connect with each of you — to hear your stories, celebrate your successes, and stand with you as we tackle the challenges ahead. Together, we will continue to grow this movement, strengthen our collective voice, and advocate for an early childhood system that works for all.

With deep gratitude and commitment,

Alicia Castaneda Hatfield
Government Relations Coordinator
EveryChild California