Q1 2026 E-Newsletter

We are excited to partner with STEM Hub on the Free Little Libraries project. Through this initiative, local high school students are building 20 library kits that will be strategically placed throughout our region to expand access to books for both children and adults. This effort not only increases literacy opportunities, but also highlights the power of cross-sector collaboration and youth engagement in strengthening our communities.

We are also partnering with Child Care Resource and Referral, STEM Hub, and CREN to host our annual Early Childhood Educator Conference, Journey to the Stars, on April 18. This full-day event will focus on learning, connection, and practical strategies for early childhood professionals. This year’s theme, Building Brains and Supporting Big Feelings, reflects our ongoing work with the Every Child Belongs project. As we continue expanding resources for the community, conference sessions will address shared challenges such as supporting children with special needs and prioritizing educator wellbeing. The conference is open to all early childhood professionals, and we hope you will join us.

In addition, Four Rivers Early Learning Hub is partnering with Children’s Institute and CREN to launch a pilot program designed to better align K–12 systems with early learning. On March 9, we will host an informational event where administrators can learn about the benefits of this work from leaders who piloted the program in Yoncalla, Oregon. Following the event, districts will be invited to apply to participate in the pilot within our region.

GOVERNANCE UPDATES

We are proud to share that Toni Gardner has been elected Vice Chair of the Four Rivers Early Learning Hub Governance Council. Toni has been a dedicated member of the Family Leadership Council since its inception, bringing consistency, insight, and a strong family-centered perspective to our work.

As a grandmother raising her grandchildren, Toni offers lived experience that deeply informs and strengthens the Hub’s efforts on behalf of children and families across our region. We are grateful that she accepted the nomination and look forward to her leadership in this new role.

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