Every two years, state agencies in Oregon are tasked with creating an Agency Request Budget (ARB). This important document outlines the agency’s recommended investments for the Governor and Legislature to consider. The 2025-2027 ARB marks a significant milestone for the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC), as it’s the first budget developed after the department’s inception.
DELC was established with a clear mission: to unify and strengthen Oregon’s early learning and child care system. By bringing together Oregon’s largest child care and early learning programs, DELC is committed to ensuring that all families with young children have access to the services, support, and information they need to thrive. The department’s approach is comprehensive, focusing on data-driven quality assurance, coordinated program administration, and active community engagement to shape policies that directly impact children and families.
The 2025-2027 ARB is built around two core priorities:
- Sustainable Operations: Ensuring that DELC has the necessary infrastructure to support early learning and care across the state.
- Access to Resources: Providing children and families with the tools and supports they need to foster a love of reading and promote literacy from a young age.
These priorities are vital as DELC continues its work to create a robust, equitable, and effective early learning system for Oregon’s youngest residents.
To dive deeper into DELC’s 2025-2027 Agency Request Budget and understand how these investments will shape the future of early learning in Oregon, read the full report here: https://www.oregon.gov/delc/about-us/Pages/delc-arb.aspx.