Implementation

The UP NOW Implementation Committee is a group of volunteers focused on engaging with the implementation of the Multnomah County Preschool for All ballot measure passed by voters in November 2020. Preschool for All is a merged preschool program built from the respective plans of the UP NOW Coalition & the Preschool For All Task Force. The UP NOW Committee meets virtually for two hours, every two weeks.

Goals of the Committee:

1. To keep childcare workers and small-business providers informed about the status of implementation;

2. To encourage and support UP NOW coalition members, childcare workers, family members, and allied stakeholders to to apply for advisory or staff positions for Preschool For All at the county level.

3. To invite community members to join us in anticipation of possible pressure campaigns and/or testimony to address future changes to the program, proposed legislation, needs for additional funding, or other actions.

4. To keep this ballot measure accountable to these values of the UP NOW Coalition as the program takes form and expands to full universality by Fall 2030:

   • Prioritizing the needs and wants of families with accessible & sufficient scheduling options (ex: year-round care, weekend care, 10 hour care days, etc.);

   • Culturally relevant and specific care options;

   • Appropriate compensation for providers and staff;

   • Opportunities for professional development;

   • Worker access to union organizing if they choose, without resistance from their employers.

5. To provide oversight and accountability to make sure that adequate tax revenue is collected to meet the goals of the program.

Specific tasks we may want to work on:

• Applications for seats on Multnomah County’s Preschool for All Advisory Committee;

• Support those applying for the Preschool for All Advisory Committee or for related staff positions with the county;

• Contact elected officials to support or oppose certain provisions, changes, or legislation as implementation progresses;

• Participate in a social media and media campaign to influence the direction of the program;

• Communicate with allies and key groups, particularly childcare and preschool workers, their unions and organizations, providers and family members.