Children First Leader Joins Fellowship Advancing Early Childhood Advocacy

Children First proudly announces that Flora Oynick, Curriculum and Instruction Manager, has been selected to join the Florida Early Childhood Advocacy Fellowship (FECAF), a statewide initiative led by the Children’s Forum to equip and empower early childhood leaders as advocates for children, families, and the early learning workforce.

The year-long fellowship offers participants the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the legislative process, participate in the Children’s Forum in Tallahassee, and build relationships that strengthen their ability to advocate for high-quality early education and support for families.

Oynick, who has worked in the early childhood field for over three decades, oversees curriculum development and instructional support at Children First. She leads the implementation of educational systems, ensuring quality, compliance, and continuous improvement, while also training staff and collaborating with families and community partners. Oynick holds a Master’s Degree in Jewish Education (MDJE) with a Certificate in Early Childhood Education.

“Flora’s selection for this esteemed fellowship is a reflection of her tremendous expertise and dedication to the early childhood field,” says Philip Tavill, President & CEO of Children First. “Her passion and leadership will help ensure that the voices of children, families, and educators are heard where it matters most.”

Oynick joins colleague Brigette Davis, Associate Director of Head Start and Early Head Start at Children First, who was part of FECAF’s inaugural class in 2023.

About Children First

Founded in 1961 and ranked in the top 1% of over 1,800 Head Starts nationwide, Children First strengthens children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health, and well-being. At multiple sites throughout Sarasota County, Children First offers full-day preschool, infant and toddler care, and nutrition and health care assistance to children from birth to five years old in low-income families. Through Children First, children receive the social and cognitive skills needed to enter kindergarten and elementary school on track. For more information, call (941) 953-3877 or visit www.childrenfirst.net.

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