The strength of interdisciplinary learning was on full display at the inaugural UC Berkeley Early Childhood Policy Summer Institute that afforded graduate students the opportunity to get an in-depth look at how policy moves through the legislative process.
The day-long institute in Sacramento included meeting with legislative officials and early childhood advocacy leaders, and attending a Senate session. Students witnessed how research can inform policy, heard about the importance and power of community input, and were encouraged by several Berkeley alums to consider the many different paths to supporting children and their families.
“The Summer Institute reflects our deep commitment to preparing scholar-leaders who engage in policy and practice to advance equity in early childhood,” said Berkeley School of Education (BSE) Dean Michelle D. Young. “Berkeley faculty embody the kind of transdisciplinary engagement and public scholarship that defines the mission of the Berkeley School of Education and UC Berkeley as a whole.”
The institute included students and faculty from diverse disciplines, including education, psychology, public health, public policy, and social welfare. Along with their academic degree, students are working toward their Certificate in Early Learning Science and Child Policy.
“Attending the Early Childhood Policy Summer Institute was such an enriching and eye-opening experience,” said Ekene Ogonna Azuka, a second-year doctoral student in the UC Berkeley School of Education’s School Psychology Program. “It helped me see how my experiences can influence policy as a policymaker, elected official, or advocate.”
Among the day’s activities, students heard from leaders at First 5 California, which focuses on policies and resources for children from birth to 5 years old.
Jackie Wong BA ‘97, executive director of First 5 California and Jorge de la Cruz, deputy director of external and governmental affairs outlined California’s early childhood policy landscape and highlighted leadership opportunities in the field. Sharing personal stories about overcoming challenges, both leaders encouraged students to seek mentors, and urged them to pursue their passions with resilience and purpose.
“As a proud UC Berkeley alum,” Wong said, “it’s inspiring to see the next generation of leaders preparing to advance early childhood policy in California. You don’t have to know exactly where your path will lead — just stay rooted in purpose and proximity to the communities you serve.”
Observing a Senate floor session helped to showcase the importance of civic engagement and democratic participation. “We were able to experience a glimpse of what policy and advocacy can look like at the state level,” said Karina Du, a graduate student in the BSE’s Joint Doctorate in Special Education Program. “I especially enjoyed hearing their stories and insights about entering the policy and advocacy world.”
The current Berkeley students weren’t the only ones inspired by the immersive day.
“As a Berkeley alumni, I felt energized by the passion of students,” said Andrea Ayala BA Rhetoric ’24, a Senate Fellow in the Office of Senator Caroline Menjivar, “and hopeful for the future of early childhood policy in California.”