Three early care and learning proponents are joining the Provincial Child Care Council, a diverse group providing advice and recommendations to government on developing B.C.’s universal child care plan. 

Chris Beaton is a proud member of the Mohawk Nation and the current executive director of the Nanaimo Aboriginal Centre. He has lived in Snuneymuxw territory (Nanaimo) for almost two decades and worked in the social services sector for 25 years. Beaton is a passionate advocate for supporting the success of Indigenous learners and recognizing the importance of early learning in all aspects of life. 

Darcy Dennis is a cultural advisor at the Prince George Native Friendship Centre, part of the new Aboriginal Head Start child care program. He is fluent in the Nedut'en (Lake Babine dialect) language. Dennis sits with the Likh Tsa Mis Yu (Grouse) Clan and has a licence in early childhood education. He is completing a bachelor’s degree in First Nations studies at the University of Northern British Columbia.

Jason Gordon is a provincial advisor with the BC Association for Child Development and Intervention, a non-profit society that provides networking, support and advocacy for agencies delivering services to children and youth with special needs. He started his career working with children and youth with special needs in rural and remote communities throughout northwest B.C. Now living in Kelowna, Gordon holds a master of health studies from the University of Athabasca and a bachelor of science (physiotherapy) from the University of British Columbia.

The current council is comprised of 20 members from around the province and represents five key sectors: Aboriginal, law/business, child care (including private and non-profit), education and non-profit/local government.

 “The council provides advice on the policies and programs that affect the affordability, quality, stability and accessibility of child care in B.C. The council is one of the ministry’s key stakeholder groups for child care and is consulted on significant policy, regulatory or legislative changes.

Learn More:

For more information on the council and current board members, visit: www.fin.gov.bc.ca/apps/appointments/boardView.asp?boardNum=5935

Individuals interested in serving on a provincial board can apply through the Crown Agencies and Board Resourcing Office: www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/organizational-structure/ministries-organizations/central-government-agencies/crown-agencies-and-board-resourcing-office