Tyler, Texas, February 4, 2026
Governor Greg Abbott has appointed two East Texans, Jeff Austin III and Nancy Windham, to the newly established Task Force on Early Childhood Education and Care. This task force aims to enhance the quality, accessibility, and affordability of child care for Texas families. Formed under House Bill 117, the task force will evaluate the state’s early learning programs to improve efficiency and increase affordable child care options. The initiative reflects a strong commitment to addressing challenges in Texas’s early childhood education system.
Tyler, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott has appointed two East Texans to the newly established Task Force on Early Childhood Education and Care, aiming to enhance the quality, accessibility, and affordability of child care for Texas families.
Task Force Composition
The task force comprises members from various regions, including:
- Jeff Austin III of Whitehouse, serving as chairman of the board of Austin Bank Texas N.A.
- Nancy Windham of Nacogdoches, regional economic development advisor for the Texas Forest Country Partnership.
Legislative Background
The task force was established through House Bill 117, which amends the Education Code to address governance and operational challenges in Texas’s early childhood education system.
Task Force Objectives
The task force is tasked with evaluating child care and early learning programs across all state agencies to improve operational efficiency, increase affordable child care capacity, and enhance kindergarten readiness.
Additional Appointments
In addition to the East Texas appointees, the task force includes members from various regions, such as:
- Leslie Callahan
- Lori Gabbert Charney
- Grant Coates
- Reagan Curran
- Tracy Hanson, Ed.D.
- Marisela Nava
- John “J.” Puckett
- Jennifer Stockemer, Ph.D.
Conclusion
Governor Abbott’s appointments to the Task Force on Early Childhood Education and Care reflect a commitment to addressing the challenges in Texas’s early childhood education system, with the goal of providing better support for families across the state.
FAQ
- What is the purpose of the Task Force on Early Childhood Education and Care?
- The task force aims to improve the quality, access, and affordability of child care for Texas families by evaluating child care and early learning programs across all state agencies.
- Who are the East Texas appointees to the task force?
- The East Texas appointees are Jeff Austin III of Whitehouse and Nancy Windham of Nacogdoches.
- What is House Bill 117?
- House Bill 117 is legislation that amends the Education Code to address governance and operational challenges in Texas’s early childhood education system, leading to the establishment of the task force.
- What are the objectives of the task force?
- The task force aims to improve operational efficiency, increase affordable child care capacity, and enhance kindergarten readiness in Texas.
- Who else is serving on the task force?
- Other members include Leslie Callahan, Lori Gabbert Charney, Grant Coates, Reagan Curran, Tracy Hanson, Marisela Nava, John “J.” Puckett, and Jennifer Stockemer.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Task Force Name | Task Force on Early Childhood Education and Care |
| Purpose | To improve the quality, access, and affordability of child care for Texas families |
| Legislative Background | Established through House Bill 117, amending the Education Code to address governance and operational challenges in early childhood education |
| East Texas Appointees | Jeff Austin III of Whitehouse and Nancy Windham of Nacogdoches |
| Other Members | Leslie Callahan, Lori Gabbert Charney, Grant Coates, Reagan Curran, Tracy Hanson, Marisela Nava, John “J.” Puckett, and Jennifer Stockemer |
| Objectives | Evaluate child care and early learning programs across all state agencies to improve operational efficiency, increase affordable child care capacity, and enhance kindergarten readiness |
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