Share Your ECE Story

Real Stories Lead to Real Change

We know that stories are a powerful tool to create connection, shape values, and foster change. The Children’s Opportunity Alliance is gathering short, real-life experiences from Montgomery County child care educators and families about what the early care and education (ECE) system is really like.

We want to hear from you:

  • How are you navigating the day-to-day reality of child care? If you have had to go without child care, how has that affected you and your family?

  • How are you making ends meet?

  • What support would make a difference?

  • What is life like when your child is in an early childhood setting?

We will share your perspectives with decision-makers who shape policy and funding and will work to shift public will toward prioritizing ECE as a human right and a vital investment in Montgomery County.

Share Your Experience

Media & Photo Release Consent

I grant permission to the Children’s Opportunity Alliance to use my name, photographs, video, and/or personal story in its communications, including but not limited to print materials, websites, social media, and promotional content.

I understand that these materials may be used to support the organization’s mission, including fundraising, outreach, and public awareness efforts. I waive the right to inspect or approve the final use of these materials and acknowledge that I will not receive compensation for their use.

This consent is given voluntarily and will remain in effect unless revoked in writing.

 

Parent and educator Joanna Lazzaro shares her story of why early care and education (ECE) is so important to her family in Montgomery County, MD.

 

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MoCo Early Care and Education Stories: County Executive Elrich

County Executive Marc Elrich makes the case for one of the smartest investments Montgomery County, MD, can make: early care and education.

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MoCo Early Care and Education Stories: Debbie Brol

Educator Debbie Brol shares her story of how vital fair wages for early childhood educators are in Montgomery County, MD.

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MoCo Early Care & Education Stories: Danielle

Montgomery County parent Danielle shares her story of why early care and education (ECE) is so important to her family.

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Horizon Child Care

Maryland’s Child Care Scholarship (CCS) helps eligible Montgomery County families pay for early care and education. However, enrollment in this critical resource was frozen in May 2025 and remains closed for new applicants. Horizon Child Care shares their story of how the freeze impacts children and parents at their ECE center.

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