Welcome to NMECLA
We are committed to supporting, empowering, and advocating for those who play a crucial
role in the education and early development of children in our communities.
Happy New Year!
We hope that 2026 will be a monumental year for the advancement of early childhood. While the year has begun with some challenges, we believe this is the perfect time to come together and create meaningful, positive change in our field.
In the coming months, we will be attending several legislative gatherings to advocate for progress and ensure that the voices of early childhood professionals are heard. We would greatly value your input to share with our senators, representatives, and—most importantly—the Secretary of ECECD.
Please email us with your questions, concerns, or any topics you would like further clarity on. Presenting a united front is essential so that shared concerns can be thoughtfully reviewed and addressed for the continued improvement and strengthening of Early Childhood.
Hello Members
It is time for our annual membership renewal. Please review the attached application and complete it in full. Once finished, return the application to this email address, and an online invoice will be created for you to conveniently submit your membership payment.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. We appreciate your continued support and membership.
Child Care Assistance Federal Funding Update
While child care remains a topic in the news, we want to keep you informed about recent developments with federal funding for the Child Care Assistance program.
What happened: On Monday, January 5, 2026, after close of business, the federal Office of Child Care sent states updated guidance about monthly reporting requirements under the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF). Please see ACF - Office of Child Care Bulletin.
What this means for you: The guidance asks for some additional details in our monthly reports to the federal government. The good news is that this information is already part of what we submit, so there will be no disruption to Child Care Assistance payments. Providers, you will not need to submit any new paperwork or information to receive your payments.
What else is happening: Also on Monday, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services proposed rescinding certain CCDF policies that were put in place in 2024. See: HHS to Close Biden-Era Loophole That Let States Pay Child Care Providers Without Counting Attendance | HHS.gov. These proposed changes are in a 30-day public comment period. Based on what we know right now, we do not expect these proposals to affect child care operations, programs, or payments in New Mexico.
What's next: We are closely watching these developments and will keep you updated every step of the way. Child care is essential to New Mexico's children and families, and we are committed to supporting the provider community and families of young children through any changes ahead.
Board Members
Executive Director: Rosa Barraza
575-442-9811
Administrative Deputy Director: Corina Barraza
corinabarraza@nmcla.org
Financial Administrator: Miriam Baque
miriambaque@nmcla.org
Communication Coordinator & Secretary: Sara Fraire
sarafraire@nmcla.org
Representative of the South:
Maria Ponce
mariaponce@nmcla.org
Olga Casillas
olgacasillas@nmcla.org
Representative of the East:
Helen Ortega
helenortega@nmcla.org
Maria Melendez
Services
Training Sessions
Personalized Consulting
Advocacy
The New Mexico Early Childhood Learning and Care Association (NMECLA) offers training in various ways to meet the needs of its members. It organizes practical workshops, interactive seminars, and educational conferences where members can acquire new skills, knowledge, and tools relevant to early childhood education and care. These events are designed and led by experts in the field, addressing current and practical topics ranging from teaching strategies to child development and child care center management. Additionally, NMECLA facilitates continuous professional development programs, offering online learning opportunities and accessible educational resources for its members, ensuring they are up-to-date on best practices and pedagogical approaches.
The New Mexico Early Childhood Learning and Care Association (NMECLA) Executive Director offers personalized consultations to its members through direct counseling and individualized advice. Members can reach out to NMECLA Executive Director to ask questions, voice concerns, or seek guidance on a variety of topics related to early childhood, education, and child care. Additionally, all board members are also available to provide assistance, guidance and solutions to the specific needs of members, whether it be in managing child care centers, implementing educational programs, or professional development for staff.
The New Mexico Early Childhood Learning and Care Association (NMECLA) advocates for child care providers by influencing government policy formulation, representing them before authorities and regulatory agencies, educating the public on the importance of quality child care, and promoting resources and support for providers. Through these actions, NMECLA aims to improve the conditions in which child care providers operate, ensuring their recognition, support, and access to necessary resources to offer quality services to children and their families.
Mission Statement
The New Mexico Early Care and Learning Association provides direction and clarity to its members and Stakeholders. We advance a diverse, dynamic Early Childhood profession and support all who care for, educate and work on behalf of young children.
Philosophy Statement
"In our association, we are dedicated to supporting and empowering home-based and center-based childcare providers. We recognize the vital role they play in children's development and commit to providing them with the support, resources, and training needed to deliver high-quality care. We believe in the transformative power of their work and strive to be a dependable source of guidance and assistance every step of the way. By coming together in community, we can create safe, nurturing, and enriching environments where every child can grow and thrive to their fullest potential."
About Us
Established in 2010, the New Mexico Early Care and Learning Association (NMECLA) is the largest and most authoritative body in the early childhood sector for Hispanics. We represent over 300 members statewide, including private, home-based, and other individuals passionate about the well-being of all New Mexico children.
NMECLA takes pride in being a voice for young children. We are willing and equipped to address a wide range of issues related to the provision of early childhood education and care, such as:
*Ensuring quality in early childhood education.
*Analyzing federal government policy.
*Promoting affordability and accessibility of childcare services.
Through our extensive network, we can also provide highly qualified experts in fields including children's social and emotional well-being, as well as early childhood education and care, among others.
Register Here!
Note: The registration form only allows you to enter 6 names. If you wish to register more people, please write the additional names in the notes section at the end of the form.
Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Early Childhood Career?
Join NMECLA today and gain access to a wealth of resources, training opportunities,
and support to help you succeed in the field of early childhood education and care.
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