Montgomery, Ala. – During the 2026 Children’s Policy Council Conference held at the Renaissance Hotel and Spa, Governor Kay Ivey was presented with the inaugural Lifetime Champion for Children award. The honor, bestowed by the council’s organizers, highlights the governor’s long‑standing commitment to improving the lives of Alabama’s youngest residents.
Recognition of statewide progress
Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education Secretary Ami Brooks handed the award to Governor Ivey, noting that her administration has made the education of Alabama students a top priority. Organizers pointed to a series of measurable gains: higher elementary test scores in reading and math, reduced student absenteeism, and increased graduation rates. They also cited broader economic benefits, such as growth in parental employment, which they say helps lift families out of poverty.
Governor Ivey’s response
“Your teamwork means everything to Alabama children,” Governor Ivey said in her remarks. “Progress has been achieved in elevating the quality of life of Alabama children, from improvements to parental employment to rising elementary test scores in reading and math to lower student absenteeism to higher graduation rates. Alabama’s young people are on a better path.”
Support from education leaders
State School Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey praised the governor’s dedication, calling her “the most deserving person for this first‑ever award for a lifetime achievement.” He added that Ivey has done “more for children in this state than probably anybody before her,” underscoring the bipartisan respect the governor enjoys among education officials.
Impact on families and communities
The award ceremony reinforced a core belief shared by many Alabamians: strong families and thriving children are the foundation of healthy neighborhoods. By focusing on early‑childhood education and family‑centered policies, Governor Ivey’s administration aims to give parents the tools they need to succeed at work while ensuring children receive a solid academic start.
Looking ahead
Conference organizers said the recognition is not only a celebration of past achievements but also a call to continue the momentum. They urged lawmakers, school leaders, and community groups to build on the progress made, emphasizing that sustained investment in children’s education and family stability will keep Alabama on an upward trajectory.
As the state moves forward, Governor Ivey’s focus on education, employment, and family well‑being remains a central theme of her agenda, aligning with the broader goals of the Children’s Policy Council and the many local partners working to support Alabama’s next generation.
Original reporting: Alabama News Network — read the source article.
