Turning Insight into Impact
The policies that shape a child’s first five years are strongest when they are informed by both data and experience.
The Research & Policy Council brings together cross-sector leaders to help ensure that research, analysis, and real-world insight guide our decision-making—strengthening how our priorities are set and how early childhood policy takes shape across Florida.
What the Council Does
Together, members:
- Advise on data and research priorities for The Movement.
- Review and provide feedback on potential publications.
- Discuss legislative priorities affecting young children and families.
- Provide strategic guidance as new ideas and initiatives take shape.
The Council serves as a strategic sounding board—bringing diverse perspectives to help ensure that our work remains informed, thoughtful, and aligned with the needs of children and families across Florida.
Why It Matters
The first five years shape a child’s development, learning, and long-term well-being. Ensuring that the policies and investments guiding this stage are informed by both research and real-world experience helps create stronger outcomes for children, families, and communities across Florida.
How It Works
The Research & Policy Council convenes regularly to provide input and guidance on key areas of our work. Through these conversations, members review materials, share perspectives, and help inform priorities as they evolve.
Members
The Research & Policy Council reflects the diverse ecosystem that supports children and families, representing philanthropy, government, education, business, early learning, higher ed, parents, educators, community organizations, and state agencies.
- Kissha Ballard, Parent and Family Child Care Provider
- Mike Boose, Arthrex
- Sharisse Brantley, Early Childhood Educator
- Shaleen Fagundo, Interamerican Learning Center
- Michelle Forrest, Former Head Start Provider
- Molly Grant, Association of Early Learning Coalitions
- Pam Hollingsworth, ELC Miami-Dade/Monroe Counties
- Mary Huffstetter, St. Lucie Public Schools
- Dr. Christine Hughes, Florida Association of Infant Mental Health (FAIMH)
- Kimberly Lent Morales, Helios Education Foundation
- Dr. Sharon Miller, King's Kid Christian Academy of Tampa
- Paula Moujalli, United Way Miami
- Sasha Pack, Early Childhood Educator and Parent
- Mirine Richey, FSU Center for Prevention & Early Intervention Policy
- Norma Schwartz, Florida Association for the Education of Young Children (FLAEYC)
- Russell Scoates, Retired Early Learning Center Owner
- Kimberly Singer, Florida Head Start Association
- Erin Smeltzer, The Children’s Forum
- Tamara Tener, Florida Family Child Care Home Association
- Nadeige Theresias-Joisil, Sant La Haitian Neighborhood Center
- Michele Watson, Florida Assocation of Children’s Councils and Trust (FACCT)
Questions?
Contact Makayla Buchanan at MBuchanan@childrensmovementflorida.org.