Announcing Rock the Hill 2026!
Pull up a rocking chair — and let’s make some noise for Tennessee’s youngest learners!
On Tuesday, January 20, 2026, families, educators, and early childhood advocates from across the state will gather in Nashville for Rock the Hill at the Tennessee State Capitol. (There will also be ways to participate from home or work – stay tuned for more on that).
The Event Day
This isn’t just another day on the Hill — it’s a movement centered on Tennessee’s young children and their families.
- The Rally (10:30am-11:30am): All advocates will kick off the day with a RALLY outside the capitol
- Families Forward (11:30am-1:30pm): Selected families with young children will participate in a special experience where they will meet with state lawmakers – delivering messages in a bottle and in lunchboxes. They’ll also participate in child-oriented activities, enjoy a meal, and receive goodies and a $200 stipend.
- Policymakers (11:30-1:30pm) will step into a mock learning center at the capitol to talk with parents and better understand what quality early learning looks like in action, and why it matters.
- Legislator meetings: Advocates are encouraged to plan meetings with their legislators to further amplify the messages about the importance of investing in young children and families.
More details to come!
Family Participation
Families will play a special leading role – and we’re recruiting! If you’re a parent living in Tennessee with one or more children under the age of 9, and you’d like to bring them to join us in Nashville for this fun event on January 20th, then submit a short application by Monday, November 18th! Up to 100 families will be selected to:
- Deliver messages to legislators
- Participate in fun activities and enjoy a meal
- Receive a $200 stipend (and goodies) for their time and commitment
Advocate Involvement
If you’re an early childhood advocate, we invite you to:
- Encourage families to apply
- Attend the Rock the Hill Rally
- Help get the news about Rock the Hill out to your community by sharing our social media posts
For the latest updates on Rock the Hill and other TQEE news, sign up to be a Loud Voice for Little Kids in the form below.
Questions? Email jenny@tqee.org
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