The Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance has recognized state Sen. Andrea Stillman, D-Waterford, as one of 24 state legislators who it says have made Connecticut's young children and their families a priority this legislative session.

Each year, the alliance seeks nominees from its membership, taking into account active assistance during the legislative session on issues that are of interest to the membership, as well as availability and access for constituents. This year's nominees shaped legislation and engaged with early childhood advocates to create effective early childhood policy for Connecticut.

This session, legislators passed bills that included creating the CT Office of Early Childhood, planning for universal access for preschool, expanding School Readiness, and providing budget increases for Care4Kids and full-day, full-year rates for state-funded programs. State Rep. Michelle Cook, D-Torrington, was named legislator of the year, while 23 legislators were named Children's Champions. In lieu of an event at the state Capitol, Children's Champions will be honored in-district with local early childhood advocates.