Florence Mayor Tara Walter and Sophie Dessart, manager of communications and public affairs for Florence Copper, have been appointed to the Pinal Regional Partnership Council's First Things First Committee.

The First Things First Committee is a voluntary group aimed at improving early childhood outcomes by coordinating efforts among parents, educators, health care providers and community leaders, a press release stated.

Walter and Dessart will be working to promote the well-being and education of children from birth to age 5 in Pinal County, the release stated.

“My interest in serving on the First Things First Pinal Regional Partnership Council stems from my desire to ensure that the region where I live and work has an environment where every child can reach their fullest potential,” Dessart stated in her application for the position. “In my experience living in Florence and working for a Pinal County employer, Florence Copper, I have witnessed firsthand the critical need for services in our region, especially in early childhood development and learning.”

She has been a board member for various organizations, including the United Way of Pinal County and Pinal Alliance for Economic Growth. Dessart’s term will run through June 30, 2028.

Along with serving as mayor for two terms, Walter is an assistant principal with the Florence Unified School District and has served 24 years in education.

Walter, who has been appointed to a full-second term as an at-large representative on the committee, is not running for a third term as mayor and is instead campaigning for Pinal County school superintendent.

"I understand the critical role that early childhood education plays in setting children up for success," Walter stated in the release. "I am excited to contribute my knowledge and expertise to this council and work toward creating a better future for our children."

Her term runs through June 30, 2028.

Dessart and Walter plan to leverage their connections with businesses, local and state governments, school districts and the community to assist children in need.

“My goal is to use the networks and contacts that I have cultivated in my career in Pinal County to bring new partners to the table to discuss and promote solutions for the challenges our local children face,” Dessart stated in her application. “Ultimately, my vision is for every child to have access to high-quality early childhood education and care, regardless of their background or circumstances.”