In this episode of the ELEVATE Podcast, hosts Inette Bolden and Jennifer Ferreira sit down with Nichelle Owens and Jessica Blasic from Montgomery County’s Judy Center Early Learning Hubs to explore how these family-centered programs support children from birth to age five. They discuss the Judy Centers’ mission, their rapid expansion in Montgomery County, and how playgroups, developmental screenings, and family engagement activities help build school readiness.

Nichelle and Jessica also highlight the power of community partnerships and share how families, educators, and early childhood leaders can get involved.

In this episode, hosts Jennifer Ferreira and Inette Bolden sit down with Tamieka Thomasson, Program Manager III of Child Care Support Services (CCSS) in Montgomery County. Tamieka shares her journey in early childhood education, her passion for play-based learning, and the mission of CCSS to ensure quality care for every child.

Listeners learn how CCSS supports:

• Families through Family Involvement Centers, one-on-one parenting support, and help navigating resources and child care options.
• Educators with on-site coaching, professional learning communities, training, and classroom consultation to strengthen teaching practices.
• Child care programs with guidance on licensing, quality improvement, business growth, and access to funding for facilities and materials.

Tamieka emphasizes CCSS’s commitment to access, quality, and equity, reminding the community: “We are here and we are your partner.”

The episode highlights how CCSS empowers families, strengthens providers, and uplifts educators to create a strong early care and education system across Montgomery County.

Join hosts Inette Bolden and Jennifer Ferreira as they welcome Maranda Schoppert, Program Manager for Early Literacy and Children's Services at Montgomery County Public Libraries. With over 11 years of experience working with young children and caregivers, Maranda brings valuable insights into the foundational skills that set children on the path to becoming confident readers.

In this episode, listeners will discover what early literacy truly means, why it matters before a child can even read, and how families and educators can nurture these skills through everyday activities.