ICYMI: Neighborhood Villages Hosts Film Screening of Child Care Documentary in Dorchester
The Boston-based nonprofit hosted the Massachusetts premiere of “Make a Circle” at the Strand Theatre
BOSTON, MA (November 13, 2024) – Last night, Neighborhood Villages – a Boston-based nonprofit that advocates for solutions to the greatest challenges faced by the early education sector – hosted the Massachusetts premiere of the award-winning documentary, Make a Circle, at the Strand Theatre in Dorchester.
The film follows the work of early educators in California over several years, culminating in the mobilization of thousands of educators and families to march to the State Capitol demanding better working conditions.
“Make a Circle offers a unique perspective, allowing viewers to dive deep into what it takes to drive meaningful reform within the child care system while also being part of it,” said Latoya Gayle, Senior Director of Advocacy at Neighborhood Villages. “Real change comes from within, and this film showcases the resilience of those working on the front lines to reshape the future of early education. The evening reminded us of the importance of amplifying and mobilizing the voices of providers, educators, and families to help make change happen in our communities.”
“Make a Circle’ captures the powerful, often unseen dedication of early educators and families working tirelessly to reshape our child care system from the inside out. This film offers a rare and intimate perspective on the resilience required to drive meaningful reform, showing audiences the heart and grit behind this vital work. At the Council for Professional Recognition, we are proud to support this film and the inspiring efforts to shape a stronger future for our children,” stated Dr. Calvin Moore, Jr., CEO, Council for Professional Recognition.
The event was free to the public and brought in over 100 attendees, including providers, educators, community leaders, elected officials, and families.
Following the screening, Latoya Gayle, Senior Director of Advocacy at Neighborhood Villages, moderated an engaging panel featuring Donna Denette, Executive Director of Children First in Granby; Gloria Valentin-Denson, Owner of Children’s Garden in Hyde Park; and Cherish Casey, Educator and Social Worker at Ellis Early Learning.
The event was sponsored by The Boston Foundation and the Council for Professional Recognition.
Make a Circle will officially premiere on the PBS network in 2025. Learn more about the film and watch the trailer here.
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About Neighborhood Villages
Neighborhood Villages, founded in 2017 by Lauren Kennedy and Sarah Muncey, is a Boston-based systems-change non-profit that advocates for early education and care policy reform and implements scalable solutions that address the biggest challenges facing providers and the families who rely on them. For more information, visit https://www.neighborhoodvillages.org/our-work.
About The Council For Professional Recognition
The Council for Professional Recognition advances career pathways for early childhood educators through high-quality, competency-based credentialing. The Council recognizes and credentials professionals who work in all types of early care and education settings including Head Start, pre-k, infant-toddler, family childcare, and home visitor programs. As a nonprofit organization, the Council sets policies and procedures for assessment and credentialing. To date, over 1 million Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials have been issued around the world. For more information, visit www.cdacouncil.org.
