In a vibrant meeting room filled with the echoes of community voices, Dr. Joni Suena, the newly appointed Assistant Secretary of Native American Early Education and Care, addressed the Legislative Health and Human Services Committee on August 20, 2025. With a rich background in education and a personal connection to the Pueblo de Cochiti, Dr. Suena shared her vision for enhancing early childhood education among New Mexico's Native American communities.

Dr. Suena began by outlining the mission of the Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD), emphasizing a commitment to culturally responsive and equitable systems for families and young children from various Pueblos and tribes. She highlighted the importance of the New Mexico Early Childhood Tribal Advisory Coalition (NEMECTEC), established in 2022, which aims to foster collaboration and support tribal investments in early education.

The meeting showcased the progress made under Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's leadership, particularly in establishing a unique state-level office dedicated to Native American early education. Dr. Suena noted that New Mexico is setting a precedent by focusing on government-to-government relationships that respect the sovereignty and cultural heritage of tribal nations.

A significant part of the discussion revolved around the upcoming "Sacred Beginnings" learning tour, set to commence in September. This initiative aims to deepen relationships with tribal communities, celebrate their languages and traditions, and ensure that families are aware of the resources available to them. Dr. Suena expressed her enthusiasm for engaging with tribal leadership and early childhood center directors during this tour, reinforcing the importance of culturally grounded practices in education.

Committee members, including Senator Pinto and Representative Johnson, expressed their support for Dr. Suena's work and the initiatives presented. They raised concerns about infrastructure challenges, particularly in the Navajo Nation, and the need for improved technology access in rural areas to support early childhood education.

As the meeting concluded, Dr. Suena reiterated her commitment to transparency and collaboration, inviting tribal leaders to reach out for support and resources. Her presentation left the committee with a sense of optimism about the future of early childhood education in New Mexico, particularly for its Native American communities, as they work together to build a brighter future for their children.