Early Childhood Policy Leadership Academy

Nebraska’s premier early childhood policy leadership initiative is now accepting applications! 

What is the Nebraska Early Childhood Policy Leadership Academy?

The Nebraska Early Childhood Policy Leadership Academy (PLA) is a nonpartisan leadership development program focused on preparing advocates to play an active role in shaping policies that affect the early care, education and healthy development of young children. Participants in the program learn alongside experts with extensive experience in grassroots advocacy and policy advisement at the state and federal levels.
Now entering its eighth year, PLA members and alumni are part of a dynamic, statewide network of advocates who serve as valued resources to their communities and public officials.

Who should apply?

We encourage and welcome applicants representing a wide range of lived experience and professional expertise, including:

• Early childhood care and education
• Maternal/child health
• K-12 and higher education
• Business and economic development
• Nonprofit and community services/development
• Individuals representing traditionally marginalized or underserved communities

What will I learn as a participant?

• Understand and apply the principles of authentic, community-driven grassroots advocacy
• Identify and interpret data that illuminate local early childhood needs and challenges
• Position yourself as a credible source of information and leadership on early childhood issues
• Map and leverage valuable resources, expertise and relationships within your community
• Learn how to navigate the processes involved in legislative and administrative policy as a strategic advocate

2026-27 PLA Workshops

October 13-14, 2026 – Kearney
Building an Effective Early Childhood Movement
Understand the roots and cycle of effective advocacy • Learn strategies to build momentum for early childhood issues • Research, interpret and apply local data for advocacy efforts

November 18, 2026 – Kearney
Influencing Early Childhood Policy at the Local Level
Become familiar with how municipal government works • Examine the anatomy of successful early childhood coalitions • Map and mobilize influencers, resources and relationships to achieve your advocacy goals

January 13, 2027 – Virtual Meeting
Influencing Early Childhood Policy at the Statewide Level
Explore the unique structure of Nebraska’s Unicameral system • Understand the difference between legislative and administrative policy • Identify opportunities for advocacy in the policymaking process

February 10, 2027 – Lincoln
A Day at the Capitol
Learn how to measure the impact of your advocacy efforts • Meet with your state senator to discuss an early childhood bill currently being heard in the Unicameral • Observe floor debate and attend a legislative committee hearing

March 10, 2027 – Kearney
Capstone Project Presentations and Graduation
Explore strategies and best practices for sustaining policy advocacy momentum for your early childhood goals • Deliver a capstone project presentation that shows your grasp of advocacy strategy