Tennesseans overwhelmingly support investing in our kids, and especially early education.
This is key because research shows the first five years of children’s lives are critically important for their development. We’re committed to ensuring all children succeed in school and life.
Gov. Bill Lee on Wednesday joined members of the state legislature for a ceremonial signing of a bill that, after months of negotiations, will force the state to spend down much of its more than $700 million reserve of unused federal grants intended to help poor working families.
Kids have really struggled since the onset of the pandemic. Due to widespread school and childcare closures, countless children have missed out on crucial early learning opportunities and, in many cases, haven’t had their basic nutritional needs met.
One year after COVID-19 took hold in the U.S., we see light on the horizon, and it looks like things could finally be aligning for Tennessee’s most vulnerable families.
Send an urgent message to Congress: we must reauthorize and increase funding for MIECHV – because every child deserves a strong start in life.
Katie Growden
Tennessee State Manager
[email protected]
Before coming on staff as Tennessee State Manager, Katie served as a Volunteer Leader for SCAN’s Middle Tennessee Community Action Team for five years. As a mom of three and career early childhood educator, Katie moved into advocacy work to raise awareness of issues faced every day by children, families, and the early education workforce. She and her husband have made their home in Williamson County for over 25 years. When not using her voice for kids, Katie enjoys supporting Nashville Soccer Club and spending time with friends and family.
Rachel Russell
Senior Coordinator
[email protected]
Before joining SCAN as Tennessee Senior Coordinator, Rachel worked as an Outreach Specialist under the Supportive Services for Veteran Families Grant, creating community connections and recruiting veterans in need of affordable housing. She also worked under the Early Head Start Grant for nearly a decade, serving in multiple roles including Early Head Start Teacher, Family Service Specialist, and Early Head Start Manager. Rachel grew up in Manchester, KY and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from Eastern Kentucky University. She lives in Knoxville and is excited to support and advocate for families and children.