Heather Stark is the director and owner of JVT’s Place, a Christian-based, licensed group home in the heart of Carthage that serves 20 children. She and her beloved husband, Steve, have been married for three and a half years, and they recently welcomed their first baby girl in May. Heather says, “Being a mom is the best!!” She has worked in the childcare field for 13 years in various environments, from nannying, to a smaller center of 50 children, and then to a large center of 500 children.
How did you become an advocate for early childhood education?
I became an advocate for early childhood education because I believe every child deserves the very best start in life.
Why do you think it’s important to be an advocate as a provider?
I believe it is important to be an advocate as a provider because as a provider, I can share a unique first-hand experience of how legislative decisions are affecting families and children in Missouri.
Why should Missouri invest more in childcare and education?
Missouri should invest in early childhood education because today’s children are tomorrow’s future. We owe it to our children to leave them something better than was left for us.
In one sentence, what does the ideal childcare and early education system look like for Missouri families?
The ideal childcare system would be smaller ratios in small families, like pods where siblings could be together.
What is one thing you’ve learned about advocacy that you’d like to share with others?
One thing I have learned about advocating for children is that anyone can do it!