Governor Laura Kelly prioritizes revitalization of early childhood education efforts in Kansas

Governor appoints new Executive Director, Chair of Kansas Children’s Cabinet

Governor Laura Kelly today once again highlighted her commitment to expanding early childhood programing in Kansas and reinvigorating the efforts of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet. Kelly appointed former Rep. Melissa Rooker as the new executive director and Kim Moore as new chair of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund.

“I worked closely with Rep. Rooker for many years and know her to be a steadfast advocate for Kansas children and families with a depth of knowledge on the issues impacting our children,” said Kelly. “She shares my commitment to expanding and improving early childhood opportunities across the state. I look forward to her leadership as we stimulate innovation and partnership surrounding early childhood programs.”

Rooker served in the Kansas House of Representatives for six years where she took a leadership role in education and early childhood issues. She was heavily involved in restoring critical funding for K-12 public schools. Rooker also fought for increased funding for early childhood education after years of neglect to Kansas’ prized early childhood programs.

“I’m honored to lead this work and help implement the governor’s vision for improving the health and well-being of our children and families,” said Rooker. “Early childhood programs are critical to the development and success of Kansas children. I’m eager to build on our progress by bringing new ideas and energy to the discussion.”

Kim Moore served as the president of the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund in Hutchinson for over thirty years. In that role, Moore developed multiple-year grant making initiatives in diverse health fields including adverse childhood experiences, children’s emotional and social health, oral health, and child care generally. His efforts leveraged both public and private funds to enhance programs directed towards the health of young children and their families.

“I’m pleased to have Kim Moore engaged as chair of the Children’s Cabinet,” said Kelly. “He has broad experience in the area of advocacy and philanthropy to benefit the communities of Kansas. His commitment to improving the lives of our youngest Kansans and his partnership with other philanthropies make him the right choice to chair the Kansas Children’s Cabinet.”

“I’ve seen first-hand the positive impact that high quality early intervention and support can have on children and families across the state of Kansas,” said Moore. “I look forward to working with the governor, Rep. Rooker, and the other members of the Children’s Cabinet to make sure all children in Kansas are safe, healthy and have the opportunity to succeed.”

The Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund is directed by state statute to fund and evaluate key children’s programs across the state. For more information, visit kschildrenscabinet.org.