Visit highlights early childhood education and workforce pathways in northeastern Connecticut

Governor Ned Lamont visited EASTCONN’s Northeast Learning Center in Danielson for a firsthand look at the Head Start and Early Learning programs supporting children and families.

Joined by State Senator Mae Flexer, Governor Lamont was welcomed by EASTCONN leaders, board members, staff, apprentices, and mentors. Children at the center added their own welcome, decorating a “Welcome Governor Lamont” sign to greet him upon his arrival.

During a tour of the facility, Governor Lamont spoke with those gathered, visited program spaces, and asked questions about EASTCONN’s early childhood programs and the work supporting children, families, and early childhood educators throughout the region.

The visit concluded in EASTCONN’s newly opened community garden, a hands-on learning space where children can explore the outdoors, learn about healthy foods, and extend learning beyond the classroom.

There, Governor Lamont and Senator Flexer met apprentices and mentors working side by side as part of EASTCONN’s center-based educator registered apprenticeship program. The program combines workplace learning, mentorship, and pathways to credentials for both individuals already working in childcare settings and those entering the early childhood profession.

For Diane Gozemba, EASTCONN Director of Early Childhood Initiatives, the visit provided an opportunity to share the multigenerational impact of that work.

“We were proud and excited to share with Governor Lamont and Senator Flexer the multigenerational opportunities being created here for children, families, and our communities,” Gozemba said. “That includes supporting children and families today while also creating opportunities for people to learn in the workplace, earn credentials, and build careers in early childhood education. Through our apprenticeship program, we can support people already working in childcare as well as those just beginning their careers, helping strengthen the early childhood workforce our communities need.”