Governor Appoints HIPPY USA Executive Director to Arkansas Early Childhood Commission

HIPPY USA Executive Director Staci Croom-Raley has been appointed to the Arkansas Early Childhood Commission by Governor Asa Hutchinson. The commission serves as the governing body for the Division of Child Care and Early Childhood Education within the Arkansas Division of Human Services, supporting and advising efforts to ensure all children in the state have access to safe, high-quality and nurturing learning environments.

“It is an honor to be entrusted by the Governor with this important role that impacts not only the lives of our children and families today, but the health of our communities tomorrow and the next generation of growth for our state,” said Croom-Raley. “We will work to ensure all children and families across Arkansas have access to the resources they need to succeed from those precious early years of life and help build a brighter future regardless of their background or economic situation.” 

The work of Arkansas’ Early Childhood Commission aligns closely with HIPPY USA’s mission to prepare children for future success. In addition to efforts that provide developmentally appropriate learning environments, like HIPPY USA, the commission also works to educate and assist parents and other child-care providers to help them better fulfill their role in the children’s education.

In addition to her work leading HIPPY USA with affiliate operations in 19 states, Croom-Raley’s background includes experience with Goodwill Industries, Boys and Girls Clubs and Boys Town USA. Her appointment to the Arkansas Early Childhood Commission continues through June 30, 2021. Other new appointments to the commission include Debbie Mays of Siloam Springs, Ryan Clayborn of Harrison and Kimberly Whitman of Jonesboro