January 5, 2026
DELC’s Office of Tribal Affairs has upgraded the former Tribal Advisory Committee webpage to the Oregon Tribal Early Learning Alliance to reflect the recently passed legislation- the Tribal Early Learning Plan and Fund (HB 2815). The upgraded webpage includes Guiding Principles for Tribal Early Learning and Care, information about HB 2815, and details on the new advisory body established by the bill- the Oregon Tribal Early Learning Alliance (OTELA). The advisory body is currently forming, and work will soon begin to create the new statewide early learning and care plan for Tribal children.
You can expect to see this page grow and improve over the coming months as progress continues. We invite you to stay connected by signing up for our monthly Office of Tribal Affairs Newsletter at the following link:
Paulina Whitehat, Interim Tribal Affairs Director, paulina.whitehat@delc.oregon.gov
Dana Castano, Oregon Tribal Early Learning Alliance (OTELA) Liaison, dana.castano@delc.oregon.gov
Dorianne Houser, Tribal Affairs Coordinator, dorianne.houser@delc.oregon.gov
Click below to view other Child Care Update articles
- Department of Early Learning and Care receives $7.3 million to strengthen early care and education
- Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care celebrates Week Of the Young Child
- We Are Seeking Applicants for the Preschool Promise Rulemaking Committee (RAC)
- Tribal Nations and the Department of Early Learning and Care collaborate to advance opportunities for Tribal children
- Oregon Department of Education Releases Indigenous Family Special Education Guides