Recent Advocacy Wins

We Did That.

In March 2025, after mounting pressure from Missouri childcare providers and elected officials, Assistant Commissioner Pam Thomas resigned from DESE’s Office of Childhood. MCPAU was front and center in calling for accountability — and the demand for change was undeniable.

In June 2025, Deidre Anderson-Barbee will officially take on the role of Assistant Commissioner. A trusted advocate and leader who has fought alongside providers since before the pandemic, Deidre brings lived experience, transparency, and provider-centered values to the top.

This is what provider-led advocacy can achieve. This is what happens when we unite and speak out.

  • Immediate payment of all outstanding subsidy funds owed to providers
  • Return to CCDBG-compliant payments based on authorizations, not attendance
  • Restore the 50% accreditation and disproportionate rate enhancements
  • A full independent audit of CCDBG and CCDF funds
  • Legislative and federal intervention to prevent future mismanagement
  • Full participation in the $1.9 billion class action lawsuit

Our Current Advocacy Priorities

At MCPAU, we listen to the voices of providers—and we take those voices straight to the decision-makers. These are the key priorities we’re actively fighting for in Jefferson City and beyond:

  • Increased Childcare Subsidy Rates
    So providers can actually afford to stay open and serve families with dignity.
  • Fair & Practical Licensing Standards
    Simplifying policies that make it harder—not safer—to run a quality program.
  • Emergency Relief Funds for Home-Based Programs
    Ensuring small providers have access to financial support in times of crisis.
  • Respect & Recognition for Childcare Workers
    Including better pay, professional pathways, and public acknowledgment.
  • Mental Health & Wellness Support for Providers
    Because you can’t pour into others if you're running on empty.
  • Pay Providers Based on Authorization, Not Attendance
    We’re fighting for Missouri to follow federal standards and pay providers based on a child’s enrollment authorization — not daily attendance. Childcare must be funded like the essential infrastructure it is, not treated like a drop-in service.

How We Advocate

Advocacy isn’t just about talking—it’s about action. Here’s how we’re showing up, speaking up, and making sure Missouri childcare providers get the respect and resources they deserve:

  • Policy Proposals & Testimonies
    Speaking truth at legislative hearings to demand provider-centered reform.
  • Capitol Day & Legislative Visits
    Meeting lawmakers face-to-face and representing your stories directly.
  • Petitions & Provider Surveys
    Gathering voices from across Missouri to push for real change.
  • Press Conferences & Media Campaigns
    Taking provider issues to the public and putting pressure where it counts.
  • Community Rallies & Advocacy Trainings
    Empowering providers with the tools to speak boldly, lead locally, and organize statewide.

Get Involved in the Movement

Change doesn’t happen without people. If you believe childcare providers deserve better — better pay, better policy, better protection — there’s a place for you in this movement.

  • Sign the MCPAU Petition
    Lend your name to support the legislative changes providers are fighting for.
  • Attend an Advocacy Meeting
    Join us for a virtual or in-person meeting to stay updated on policy issues and provider wins.
  • Become a City or County Policy Rep
    Represent your region and help bring provider concerns directly to the state level.
  • Share Your Story
    Your voice matters. Help us highlight real provider experiences across Missouri.
  • Support the MCPAU Legal Fight
    Stand with us in our push for fair payments and justice through our class action lawsuit.