The ECLC is Colorado’s federally authorized state advisory council for early childhood and was established in 2010. Operating in conjunction with the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC), the ECLC serves as a statewide leader and subject matter expert dedicated to improving the access, quality, and equity of services for pregnant women, young children (birth through age eight), and their families.
The ECLC is comprised of 21 commissioners appointed to represent the full spectrum of early childhood stakeholders. This diverse board includes parents, early childhood professionals, local school districts, nonprofits, foundations, business leaders, and representatives from six state departments.
The primary purpose of the ECLC is to build and advance a comprehensive, data-driven service delivery system. This framework spans several critical sectors, including:
- Health and mental health: Promoting prenatal, child health, and early childhood mental health initiatives
- Early care and education: Aligning standards and expanding access to high-quality learning environments, including Colorado’s Universal Preschool program
- Family support: Strengthening parent education, family resource pipelines, and child maltreatment prevention alignment
By law, the commission is tasked with several structural responsibilities:
- Agency alignment: Coordinating efforts and removing barriers across six state departments to smooth out rule-making and procedures
- Policy advisory: Submitting official recommendations directly to the Department of Early Childhood and the General Assembly
- Strategic monitoring: Tracking the ongoing development of universal early learning standards and cohesive career pathways for the childhood workforce
Mr. ErkenBrack noted: “This is a terrific opportunity at a critical time for early childhood in the state. Governor Polis deserves great credit for identifying the importance of the state’s youngest residents through the creation of the Department of Early Childhood and his advocacy for full day kindergarten and universal pre-K. But we have much to do still, and I look forward to working with my colleagues on the ECLC as a new governor takes office in a few months. In the midst of many significant issues facing the state, there is no more important issue than our future, and no better way to build our future than by enhancing our efforts for children.”
