Author: orearlylearning

Second Phase of Every Child Belongs Launches Early Learning Supports in Select Regions Across Oregon

The Every Child Belongs Connect initiative enhances support for early learning programs in Oregon, aimed at reducing suspensions and expulsions while addressing children’s specialized needs effectively.

December 1, 2025

Over the summer, the Department of Early Learning and Care began testing Every Child Belongs Connect in three participating Early Access Regions. This new service helps early learning programs get more coordinated and culturally responsive support. These supports come before a new law takes effect in July 2026 that prohibits suspensions and expulsions in early learning settings. 

The idea for Every Child Belongs (ECB) began in 2021 after House Bill 2166 and Senate Bill 236 passed. These laws were created to reduce and eventually eliminate suspension and expulsion in early childhood programs across Oregon.

It is not uncommon for programs to self-report seeing an increase in children with specialized needs. Providers often do not have enough resources or support to handle challenging situations. ECB is designed to help early learning providers make sure children get the social, emotional, and behavioral help they need.

ECB Connect testing expanded on November 21, 2025, bringing services to more regions across Oregon. New regions include Lane County; Four Rivers (Gilliam, Hood River, Sherman, Wasco, Wheeler Counties); Clackamas County; Eastern (Baker, Malheur, Wallowa Counties); South Central (Douglas, Klamath, Lake Counties); and Southern (Jackson, Josephine Counties). The second phase expansion will allow more early learning providers to connect directly with specialists and local resources. To learn more about Every Child Belongs please visit About Every Child Belongs.

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The third round of the Child Care Infrastructure Fund Closes December 16

The third round of Oregon’s Child Care Infrastructure Fund offers $20 million in grants, closing December 16, 2025, with technical assistance available through webinars and providers.

November 18, 2025

Business Oregon and the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) are reminding communities that the third round of the Child Care Infrastructure Fund (CCIF) will close soon. The application window closes at 4:59pm on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. This round includes $20 million in grant funding for infrastructure projects that support the well-being of Oregon children and families. Updated grant materials are available on Business Oregon’s website: Business Oregon : Child Care Infrastructure Program : Child Care Infrastructure Program : State of Oregon

If you plan to apply, there is still time to attend one of the technical assistance webinars, available in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Russian, and Chinese. Each session covers a different part of the application process. Register for a webinar here: Department of Early Learning and Care : Child Care Infrastructure Fund : Programs : State of Oregon

If you have questions or need technical assistance completing the Child Care Infrastructure Program application, please contact one of the technical assistance providers below:

First Children’s Finance
Website: www.fcforegon.org/
Email: InfoOregon@FirstChildrensFinance.org

Northwest Native Chamber
Website: www.nwnc.org/ccif/
Email: ccifsupport@nwnc.org

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DELC Releases Its First Research and Policy Agenda

DELC’s Research and Policy Agenda, aligned with strategic plans, outlines five core priorities to guide research in early learning and care, fostering informed decision-making and public engagement.

November 3, 2025

A key priority from DELC’s strategic plan, Growing Oregon Together, states that DELC will use data and research to inform decisions and share these with the public. One way we fulfill this goal is in the drafting and release of DELC’s first Research and Policy Agenda, informed by and aligned with DELC’s other strategic plans, Growing Oregon Together and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Plan.  DELC leadership and staff worked together over several months to draft the 5 core priorities and their subsequent research and evaluation questions, and we are proud to share this research and evaluation vision for the early learning and care sector with the public.

This agenda provides a roadmap for how DELC will use research and evaluation to learn how we are making progress toward our strategic goals and know what is missing. Asking and answering some of these questions can inform future strategy for our agency and drive how we partner with our research and evaluation community across the state and country.

Research & Policy Agenda – Final November 2025Download

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November 2025 Community Newsletter

November 2025 Department of Early Learning and Care Updates.

A Message from leadership

Do you want to receive this update in your email? Sign up for our Community Newsletter and Child Care Updates twice monthly send by subscribing here.

This month’s update from Interim Director Carey McCann

It’s hard to believe that Fall is almost over! For many young children and educators that means a new program year is well underway, and some of our littlest learners are experiencing early learning and care for the first time. October was also Head Start Awareness Month, when we honor the work Head Start has been doing to create opportunity for children and families across the nation. 

Remembering Representative Hoa Nguyen 

I wanted to start my message by remembering with honor and great respect the late Representative Hoa Nguyen. On October 9, the State of Oregon lost a passionate and fierce advocate for children and families in our state. Rep Nguyen was a champion for DELC and early learners; she chaired the Early Childhood and Human Services Committee and the Child Care Caucus. This Fall DELC co-organized with the Child Care Caucus a tour of childcare facilities around the state. I was in Bend on a Baby Promise site tour with Rep Nguyen’s Caucus Co-Chair, Representative Jules Walters, the morning of October 9. Rep Walters led a moment of silence, and also wrote this touching tribute to her late colleague and friend: Remembering Hoa Nguyen. OPB has also written an article in remembrance: Oregon state Rep. Hòa Nguyễn dies at 41 – OPB. 

What I am Listening to this Month: 

Check out the podcast Early Link by Oregon’s own Children’s Institute that is highlighting national, regional, and local voices working in the field of early care and education. In the most recent episode, Kali Thorne Ladd interviews Isabelle Hau, author of Love to Learn, an exploration of how early relationships shape the architecture of the brain and the foundation for lifelong learning. I was struck by their discussion about what it takes to fuel curiosity, resilience, and growth. Hau shares that this book is for educators, parents, grandparents, and changemakers who believe the future begins with how we care for our youngest learners. 

Out and About  

September and October were busy months! 

In addition to the Bend Baby Promise site visit I mentioned above, I joined a group of almost 30 legislators, staff, advocates and system partners at a tour of the Gladstone Center for Children and Families, which hosts Head Start/Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten and Preschool Promise classrooms, as well as a Relief Nursery in the same complex. It was wonderful to witness how state and local investments in early learning care are making a difference in community.  

September 29 – October 1st the Oregon Legislature convened for interim legislative committee days. During Legislative Days, committees hold informational hearings on topics that may lead to future legislation, hear updates on bill implementation, listen to reports from state agencies and Task Forces, and keep current on emerging issues affecting Oregonians.  

Changes at the federal level were top of mind for legislators during committee days. On Monday, September 29, DELC’s Early Learning Programs Director, Dorothy Spence, and I presented to the House Early Childhood Human Services Committee alongside Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) staff at a hearing on the impacts of HR 1 – the massive tax bill passed by Congress in July. ODHS spoke about how HR 1 will impact those who participate in Oregon’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) program.  We spoke about the impacts of federal changes on Oregon families and the early childhood education workforce, challenges experienced by local Head Start programs, and future actions we will be watching closely. Click here to view the agenda and watch a recording of the presentation.  

On Wednesday, October 1st, newly-appointed Early Learning Council (ELC) Chair Liz Farrar Campbell presented to the Senate Interim Committee on Early Childhood and Behavioral Health. Chair Farrar Campbell introduced the committee to the ELC and its current priorities. To view the presentation, click here. Many thanks to Early Learning Council Administrator Gaby Hernandez, who developed the presentation and represented DELC at the committee hearing.   

Speaking of the Early Learning Council, on October 20-22 I attended the Council’s annual retreat in Salem. The retreat brought together council members, community partners, parents, home visitors and regional leaders from Early Learning Hubs and CCR&Rs to share their efforts in child care.  The Council also hosted a reception with legislators, community leaders, advocates, and champions – an inspiring evening that reaffirmed collective dedication in the work we all do for Oregon’s youngest children and their families. The final day of the retreat consisted of updates from DELC and our agency partners in Raise Up Oregon – the Oregon Health Authority, the Departments of Education and Human Services, along with the Higher Education Coordinating Commission, sharing their early childhood focus for the upcoming year. Johnna Timmes, Governor Tina Kotek’s Education Advisor, concluded the retreat by joining the Council to discuss the importance of maintaining a strong focus on young children and families across the state. 

Update Regarding Federal Government Shutdown  

As the federal government shutdown continues, our update is similar to what we shared last month. DELC continues to not anticipate immediate disruptions to services and operations.  At this time, programs remain operational, and we have not had problems drawing down federal funds in October. We will continue to monitor the situation.  

For contracts that receive federal funding, we are working in close coordination with the Governor’s office to continually assess and mitigate any potential impacts. Grantees can reach out to their grant administrator or DELC contact with questions or concerns.  We recognize that the ongoing federal uncertainty can be distressing. We are here to help navigate this situation and as always — we recognize and appreciate your work.   

Tribal Heritage Month 

In this month of November, we proudly join in celebrating Native American Heritage Month, a time to recognize and uplift the enduring cultures, histories, and contributions of Tribal Nations. As a part of that celebration, we want to highlight the historical milestone of Oregon’s Tribal Early Learning Plan. 

On October 8, the 2025 Tribal-State Government to Government Summit was held at Ko-Kwel Casino Resort in Coos Bay co-hosted by the Coquille Indian Tribe. During a morning bill signing ceremony “From Words to Actions” Governor Kotek recognized legislative advancements in early learning. HB 2815, the Tribal Early Learning Plan puts Tribal sovereignty and self-determination at the forefront. Ensuring that the nine federally recognized Tribes within Oregon’s borders hold the ability to focus on initiatives most relevant for their Nations, the creation of a Tribal Early Learning Fund allows Tribes flexible funding access for early learning resources and strengthens Oregon’s government-to-government relationships.   

You can read more about the 2025 Tribal-State Government to Government Summit in the blog posts below.  

Supporting Oregon’s immigrant families, workforce and children 

Recent events, including the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and demonstrations in Portland, are affecting Oregonians in different ways. We have also heard heightened concerns from providers about ICE presence near Oregon childcare facilities in recent weeks. All families should feel safe in their communities, and while we at DELC can do to prevent this from happening, I wanted to reiterate DELC’s commitment to upholding our responsibilities under Oregon sanctuary laws.  

Oregon is a Sanctuary State and Governor Tina Kotek has made it clear that these laws have been on the books since the 1980s and exist because the state believes that immigrants are integral to the culture and success of Oregon. State law prohibits state and local government agencies, including law enforcement, from using public resources to enforce federal immigration laws without a signed judicial warrant. This means that everyone in Oregon should be able to live, work, attend school, report crimes and access public services without fear of being reported to ICE by state or local officials. If you believe these laws are being violated, please report it to the Sanctuary Promise Violations Hotline at 1-844-924-STAY (1-844-924-7829). Operators are standing by 9am to 5pm, Monday – Friday with interpreters in over 240 languages. The Oregon Department of Justice offers an online Justice Sanctuary Promise Guidance webpage with helpful resources for employees and communities, including: Community Toolkit, Information for Public Schools, and Outreach Materials and Media. In addition to these resources, DELC has also shared the following two resources with our programs and partners geared for providers in September:  

Food Access

We are also monitoring the federal government shutdown closely. November SNAP food benefits are delayed due to the federal shutdown. Benefits will be issued after funding resumes. We know this is difficult for families who rely on food assistance programs.

If families have any unused SNAP funds on their EBT cards from previous months, those funds will rollover and can be used by families after November 1, 2025. The shutdown means that November’s allocation will not be added. 

OHA also continues to monitor federal legislative developments and their impacts on WIC funding as the government shutdown continues. At this time, the federal government provided funding for Oregon’s WIC program to continue into November. This includes services such as enrollment, breastfeeding support and connection to community services. WIC offices are open. However, funding for the food benefit (EBT) is only through November 15.   

Free and reduced price school meals will still be available. The shutdown is not currently impacting the National School Lunch Program. 

During the month of November, we will use our social media and blog posts to update any changes around food access. In the meantime, please see these community resources from ODHS if you are looking for resources near you:  

Here’s what you can do:  

If SNAP benefits are delayed, ODHS will announce it through the media and our websites. We will not send a letter. For fast updates, sign up for a ONE Online account or download the Oregon ONE Mobile app. 

Federal Government Shutdown and SNAP Benefit Updates: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/news/Pages/snap-updates.aspx 

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November SNAP food benefits are delayed

If the federal government shutdown extends into November, Oregonians may face delays in SNAP benefits, affecting 757,000 individuals. ODHS provides resources and updates for assistance.

November 3, 2025

Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, Oregonians are already experiencing delays in SNAP benefits, affecting approximately 757,000 individuals including children, older adults, and working families. ODHS continues to provide resources and updates for those seeking assistance.

We understand this news may feel stressful. Food benefits are important and delays are hard. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is working to keep people informed and will share updates as soon as more is known.

ODHS will post updates on its website (in English and Spanish), on its official social media, and through partner organizations and the media.

Here are some things you can do to prepare:

  • Check your EBT card balance regularly
  • Continue to follow SNAP rules and reporting requirements
  • Stay informed by following or subscribing to ODHS communication channels
  • Sign-up for an ONE Online account and downloading the Oregon ONE Mobile app at benefits.oregon.gov to get updates about your SNAP case

Know where to find local food resources if you need them.

  • Visit the ODHS Food Resources web page to find local programs and food support.
  • Contact 211info by dialing 2-1-1, texting your ZIP code to 898-211, or visiting http://www.211info.org.
  • Older adults and people with disabilities: Connect with the Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC) for help finding government and community resources. Call 1-855-673-2372 or visit http://www.adrcoforegon.org.

We know this may be a difficult time. You are not alone, and there are resources and support available to help.

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Celebrating Tribal Heritage Month: The historical milestone of Oregon’s Tribal Early Learning Plan

Governor Kotek signs HB 2815, establishing the Tribal Early Learning Plan, enhancing Tribal sovereignty and providing flexible funding for early learning initiatives within Oregon’s Tribal Nations.

Governor Kotek signs HB 2815. Pictured above from left to right, front row: Representative Tawna Sanchez (Shoshone-Bannock, Ute), Dana Castano, DELC (Turtle Mountain Chippewa), Marsha Frost (Coquille Indian Tribe), Becky Cantrell (Coquille Indian Tribe); back row; Senate President Rob Wagner, Cooper Brown, DELC, Tribal Council Secretary-Treasurer Jackie Chambers (Coquille Indian Tribe)

November 3, 2025

In this month of November, we proudly join in celebrating Native American Heritage Month, a time to recognize and uplift the enduring cultures, histories, and contributions of Tribal Nations. As a part of that celebration, we want to highlight the historical milestone of Oregon’s Tribal Early Learning Plan. 

On October 8, the 2025 Tribal-State Government to Government Summit was held at Ko-Kwel Casino Resort in Coos Bay co-hosted by the Coquille Indian Tribe. During a morning bill signing ceremony “From Words to Actions” Governor Kotek recognized legislative advancements in early learning. HB 2815, the Tribal Early Learning Plan puts Tribal sovereignty and self-determination at the forefront. Ensuring that the nine federally recognized Tribes within Oregon’s borders hold the ability to focus on initiatives most relevant for their Nations, the creation of a Tribal Early Learning Fund allows Tribes flexible funding access for early learning resources and strengthens Oregon’s government-to-government relationships.   

You can read more about the 2025 Tribal-State Government to Government Summit here:

My Oregon News Story

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Celebrating Head Start Awareness Month

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek declared October as Head Start Awareness Month, highlighting the program’s impact on children and families through community visits and a video featuring leadership reflections.

November 3, 2025

Last month, Governor Tina Kotek issued a statewide proclamation officially designating October as Head Start Awareness Month. The month is celebrated annually across the country as a way to honor the legacy and continued impact of Head Start in improving the lives of children, families, and communities.

The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) and the Oregon Head Start Association (OHSA) recently visited a Head Start of Lane County preschool classroom located at Lane Community College. The visit offered a firsthand look at how Head Start programs are building strong foundations for Oregon’s youngest learners by helping children grow, families thrive, and communities strengthen.

As part of this celebration, DELC partnered with Head Start of Lane County to create a short video featuring Charleen Strauch, Executive Director, and Heather Edge, Board Chair.

Through their heartfelt reflections, they share the profound impact of Head Start. How for more than 60 years, it has served as a cornerstone of opportunity and belonging for families across Oregon.

Watch the video: Head Start: Building Strong Foundations for Children, Families, and Communities

Learn More

To learn more about Head Start programs or find one near you, visit the Head Start Center Locator.

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October 2025 Community Newsletter

October 2025 Department of Early Learning and Care Updates.

A Message from leadership

Do you want to receive this update in your email? Sign up for our Community Newsletter and Child Care Updates twice monthly send by subscribing here.

This month’s update from Interim Director Carey McCann

Update Regarding Federal Government Shutdown 

Many of you likely noticed this morning’s news headlines this morning regarding a federal government shutdown. We have been planning for this potential scenario and are not anticipating immediate disruptions to DELC’s services and operations.  

At this time, programs remain operational, and we don’t currently anticipate having problems drawing down funds in October and reimbursements should move forward uninterrupted.  

For contracts that receive federal funding, we are working in close coordination with the Governor’s office to continually assess and mitigate any potential impacts if the shutdown is prolonged. If the shutdown continues into November, the DELC leadership team will be monitoring the situation and will continue to provide timely updates as information becomes available. Grantees can reach out to their grant administrator or DELC contact with additional questions or concerns.  

While we are unlikely to see any immediate impact to early learning programs and supports, we recognize that the ongoing federal uncertainty can be distressing. We are here to help navigate this situation and as always — we recognize and appreciate your work.  

She’s here! I’m thrilled to share that Alyssa and family welcomed baby Maya (My-Uh) in September. All are doing well and back at home settling into new routines. Alyssa passed on appreciation for all of the supportive messages, kind words, and well wishes from staff and partners.  

Hunt Institute 

I had the opportunity to attend the Hunt Insitute conference recently alongside other early learning partners. We heard from leaders from across the country as they shared innovative ideas for increasing access to preschool and child care, along with the importance of the early years on a child’s long-term development. One of the new presentations was by the Prenatal to Age 3 Policy Impact Center – check out their roadmap on Oregon about how we are doing on the what they have identified as the 12 most effective evidence-based investments states can make to foster opportunities for infants and toddlers. 

Head Start Awareness Month 

This month is Head Start Awareness Month! Head Start has been serving children and families across the country since 1965. Recognizing the tremendous impact of this two-generation program, Oregon created the Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten program (Oregon Prekindergarten at the time) to extend the federal Head Start model with state funds. Now, thousands of families are benefiting from these services across the state. You can learn more about Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten/Head Start on our website: https://www.oregon.gov/delc/programs/Pages/head-start-opk.aspx.   

Outdoor Nature Based Programs – Celebrating the First Certified Outdoor Program

I am excited to share that with the first Outdoor Nature Based Program has gained certification as of this summer. You may know that DELC, with the support of partners and community, has been working to define rules and regulations surrounding the rules for certification of outdoor programs.  

In 2023, House Bill 2717 added outdoor child care program to the definition of “child care facility” opening the way for the DELC to develop a path for outdoor programs to become licensed. The process for developing Oregon’s Certified Outdoor Nature-Based child care rules included consulting with current programs in Oregon, using Washington’s ONB rules as a guide, conducting site visits in Washington and Oregon, and gathering feedback from an advisory committee of advocates and professionals knowledgeable in this type of care. Throughout the process DELC has remained focused on foundational health and safety standards. 

Thank you to the outdoor programs who provided feedback and guidance to help us create strong foundational standards for certification.  

Federal CCDF Site Visit 

As many of you know, DELC receives federal funding through the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF). Every three years, federal staff conduct an on-site monitoring visit to ensure our practices align with our CCDF State Plan. This year’s visit took place September 9–11, 2025.

Our federal partners reviewed documents, interviewed staff, and observed how we implement policies across licensing, training, and eligibility processes—including collaboration with ODHS on ERDC subsidy determinations. A heartfelt thank you to all who supported this successful visit, including the: 

  • Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD) Tualatin Field Office
  • CCLD Salem Field Office
  • Grants Management
  • Internal Audits
  • Policy & Government Affairs
  • Direct Pay Unit
  • Child Care Assistance Program
  • Child Care & Development Fund Office
  • CCLD Director’s Office
  • Operations Director’s Office
  • Early Childhood Policy and Strategy Office
  • Enforcement Office

Your expertise and collaboration were key in representing Oregon’s child care system to our federal partners. Thank you! 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: New Report Shows State Child Care Investments Are Paying Off

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Aug 5, 2025

Contact:

Kate Gonsalves, (503) 428-7292, delc.media@delc.oregon.gov

Michelle Klampe, 541-737-0784, michelle.klampe@oregonstate.edu

New Report Shows State Child Care Investments Are Paying Off

Supply boosted to pre-pandemic levels and the majority of Oregon counties are no longer considered child care deserts for preschoolers

SALEM, ORE. – The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) celebrates the progress being made to provide high quality early learning to children across the state. A new report commissioned by DELC was released the by Oregon State University Child Care Research Partnership titled “Oregon’s Child Care Deserts 2024,” which found a significant decrease in child care deserts for preschool-aged children, with just nine counties in that category in 2024 compared to 27 in 2018.

Child care deserts exist when there are three or more children for a single regulated child care slot. Regulated care includes child care centers and home-based providers that are licensed by the state, which meet and maintain required health and safety standards. Without public funds, all 36 Oregon counties would still be considered child care deserts for infants and toddlers, and 28 counties for preschoolers.

“It’s incredibly encouraging to see state investments delivering real results for Oregon families,” said Alyssa Chatterjee, Director of the Department of Early Learning and Care. “The fact that more communities are no longer child care deserts for preschoolers means more children are accessing the early learning experiences they deserve—and that’s a win for our entire state.”

“We’re seeing state and community investments making a difference in the available supply,” said Megan Pratt, the report’s lead author and an associate professor of practice in the OSU College of Health and the Extension Family and Community Health Program. “There’s more child care available than there has been in the recent past.”

This is the fourth biannual report commissioned by DELC, providing a snapshot of the availability of child care following similar analysis released in 2018, 2020 and 2022, and now 2024. Important findings include:

  • While all but two counties remain deserts for infant and toddler care, 25% of counties are child care deserts for preschool age children. This is a continued declining trend with 27 counties in being preschool deserts in 2018, 25 counties in 2020, 18 counties in 2022, and nine counties in 2024.
  • Without public slots, all counties would be a child care desert for infants and toddlers, and 28 counties would be a child care desert for preschoolers.
  • 1 in every 3 children age five and under have access to a regulated childcare slot statewide.
  • Of the non-metropolitan counties, 32-100% of slots are publicly funded compared to 16-50% of slots publicly funded in non-desert metropolitan counties.

Many in-home providers are women owned and operated small businesses. Pratt points to the growth of registered family home slots as a bright spot in this year’s report. “This is the first increase for small home care since 2016,” said Pratt.

The report does not account for all public investments in child care, including those supported by local school districts or counties that are not licensed by the state. This analysis also does not include the use of vouchers such as with the Employment Related Day Care program. Publicly funded programs examined in the analysis include Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten, Preschool Promise, and Baby Promise programs along with federal Head Start and Early Head Start programs.

“With continued federal uncertainty, it’s even more important for Oregon to maintain the remarkable progress being made. Thanks to sustained investment from the Legislature, Oregon’s child care supply is rebounding after the pandemic,” said Chatterjee. “These gains show what’s possible when we prioritize early learning—it’s helping families access quality, affordable child care and building a stronger foundation for our future.”

The report’s coauthor is Michaella Sektnan of OSU’s College of Health. To read the full 2024 report including county maps and infographics, please visit the Oregon State University website at: health.oregonstate.edu/early-learners/supply.

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About the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care

The Department of Early Learning and Care’s mission is to foster coordinated, culturally appropriate, and family-centered services that recognize and respect the strengths and needs of all children, families, and early learning and care professionals. More information about DELC is available at Oregon.gov/DELC. You can also connect with DELC on Facebook or sign up for news alerts and updates.

Oregon Sanctuary Laws & Early Learning Resources

At the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC), we aim to do everything in our power to ensure that every child, family, and provider feels safe, respected, and supported. Our state has a long-standing commitment to protecting the dignity and rights of everyone, regardless of their background, and our state’s sanctuary laws reflect these values. Helping to create and foster welcoming communities is woven into the fabric of our state’s current and past practices. Nearly 40 years ago, Oregon became the nation’s first sanctuary state and Governor Tina Kotek has vowed to continue to uphold our state’s sanctuary laws.  

At DELC our mission, vision, and values reflect this inclusive approach and are central to what we do. DELC’s seven core values include: Equity, Respect, Trust, Relationships, Safety, Continuous Improvement, and Integrity. These values help anchor the agency during uncertain times and are reflected in all of our agency practices and actions.  

Today, DELC leadership reiterate our unwavering commitment to proactively ensuring the Sanctuary laws are adhered to. As we prepare for more potential changes in the enforcement of federal immigration policies, we know community members are eager for resources and information.  

DELC has not made any policy changes in response to the current federal Executive Orders and we will continue to review any potential impacts to our agency, clients, and staff. As we continue to monitor and assess the situation, we will work to keep partners appraised of the rapidly changing landscape to the best of our ability. We understand the ongoing uncertainties and current climate can contribute to fear, hardships, and concern. 

Please note that while we are working hard to be responsive and provide information relevant to Oregon, we are not able to provide legal advice or to provide urgent rapid response. Below we have provided answers to common questions and resources to the appropriate channels. DELC employees are receiving information about the Oregon immigration laws and what to do as a state employee if they are approached by immigration enforcement. Oregon law does not allow DELC staff to share data or information for reporting individuals to immigration authorities based on known or suspected citizenship or immigration status. For questions around immigration enforcement or interpreting Oregon’s Sanctuary laws, please visit the Oregon Department of Justice for the most current resources and supports.  

Going forward, we continue to celebrate, appreciate, and recognize the sizeable contributions and unique heritage of immigrant communities across Oregon. Immigrant communities play a positive role in every corner of the state including significant contributions in the early learning workforce. We affirm our unwavering support for all students, families, and providers regardless of where they come from and will continue to work to ensure all early learning environments are inclusive, safe, and remain welcoming. As reflected in our core values, we believe that all children, families, and providers have a right to safety and to be respected. 

Together, we can continue to make Oregon a place where every child and family can thrive. 

What Do Oregon’s Sanctuary Laws Mean for You? 
Oregon sanctuary laws ensure that everyone in our state can live, work, go to school, and access government services without fear of discrimination or unnecessary inquiries into their personal background. These laws also guarantee that public agencies, including DELC, focus on what matters most: supporting children, families, and providers. 

For child care providers and families, this means: 
Health and Safety First: DELC’s role is to regulate for health and safety standards in child care settings. Routine visits, inspections, and licensing processes are designed only to ensure safe and healthy environments for children. 

Equal Access: Everyone in Oregon can participate in programs and services, including child care, without fear of their personal information being shared or misused. 

Community Support: DELC is here to support child care providers and families with resources, training, and guidance to help children thrive. 

What Should You Expect? 
You can trust that DELC will continue to prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of Oregon’s children. Routine inspections and visits from our team are not impacted by any recent changes and are solely focused on helping child care providers meet safety standards. 

No Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) staff member – including licensing specialists visiting child care facilities to monitor health and safety requirements – is authorized to share the immigration status of a child care provider or family participating in DELC programs without a warrant, subpoena, or order explicitly signed by a judge. 

Our mission is to create a system where every child has access to high-quality early learning and care opportunities, and we believe that starts with fostering trust and partnership in our communities. 

We’re Here for You 
Thank you for your dedication to our children and communities. Together, we can continue to make Oregon a place where every child and family can thrive. 

For more information regarding Oregon’s Sanctuary Promise Act and how it is implemented within state agencies, please visit https://www.doj.state.or.us/oregon-department-of-justice/civil-rights/sanctuary-promise/ or contact DELC directly by e-mailing early.learning@delc.oregon.gov. 

Additional resources for early learning programs and families: 

Oregon Department of Justice Resources 

Partner and Community Organization Resources 

Partner and Community Organization Resources – Early Childhood 

For the latest updates to these resources or questions related to these materials please contact the agencies that have authored them. We appreciate your continued dedication to supporting all of Oregon’s children and families.  

Leyes de Santuario de Oregón y Recursos de Aprendizaje Temprano 

En el Departamento de Aprendizaje y Cuidado Temprano (DELC), hacemos todo lo posible para garantizar que cada niño, familia y proveedor se sienta seguro, respetado y apoyado. Nuestro estado tiene un largo compromiso con la protección de la dignidad y los derechos de todas las personas, sin importar su origen, y las leyes de santuario de nuestro estado reflejan estos valores. La creación y promoción de comunidades abiertas están entretejidos en las prácticas actuales y pasadas de nuestro Estado. Hace casi 40 años, Oregón se convirtió en el primer estado santuario de la nación, y la Gobernadora Tina Kotek ha prometido seguir defendiendo nuestras leyes de santuario. 

En DELC, nuestra misión, visión y valores reflejan este enfoque inclusivo y son fundamentales en todo lo que hacemos. Los siete valores fundamentales de DELC incluyen: Equidad, Respeto, Confianza, Relaciones, Seguridad, Mejoramiento Constante e Integridad. Estos valores nos guían en tiempos inciertos y se reflejan en todas nuestras prácticas y acciones.  

Hoy, el liderazgo de DELC reitera nuestro compromiso constante de garantizar que se cumplan las leyes de santuario. A medida que nos preparamos para posibles cambios en la aplicación de las políticas de inmigración federal, sabemos que los miembros de la comunidad buscan información y recursos.  

DELC no ha realizado cambios en su póliza en respuesta a actuales Órdenes Ejecutivas federales, y continuaremos evaluando cualquier posible impacto en nuestra agencia, nuestros clientes y nuestro personal. Mientras monitoreamos y evaluamos la situación, trabajaremos para mantener informados a nuestros socios sobre los constantes cambios de la mejor manera posible. Entendemos que la incertidumbre actual puede generar temor, dificultades y preocupación.  

Tenga en cuenta, aunque trabajamos duro para responder a las necesidades y proporcionar información relevante para Oregón, no podemos ofrecer asesoramiento legal ni una respuesta inmediata ante emergencias. A continuación, hemos incluido respuestas a preguntas frecuentes y recursos disponibles. Los empleados del DELC están recibiendo información sobre las leyes de inmigración de Oregón y qué hacer como empleado del Estado si se les acerca la policía de inmigración. La ley de Oregón no permite que el personal de DELC comparta datos o información para reportar a personas a las autoridades de inmigración basándose en su ciudadanía o estatus migratorio, ya sea conocido o sospechado. Para preguntas sobre la aplicación de leyes de inmigración o la interpretación de las leyes de santuario de Oregón, visite el Departamento de Justicia de Oregón para obtener los recursos y apoyos más actualizados.  

Seguiremos celebrando, apreciando y reconociendo las importantes contribuciones y la herencia única de las comunidades inmigrantes en Oregón. Estas comunidades desempeñan modelos positivos en cada rincón del estado, incluyendo contribuciones significativas en el sector del aprendizaje temprano. Afirmamos nuestro apoyo incondicional a todos los estudiantes, familias y proveedores, sin importar su país de origen, y continuaremos trabajando para garantizar que todos los centros de enseñanza temprano sean inclusivos, seguros y seguir siendo bienvenidos. Tal como se refleja en nuestros valores fundamentales, creemos que todos los niños, familias y proveedores tienen derecho a la seguridad y al respeto.  

Juntos, podemos continuar haciendo de Oregón un lugar donde cada niño y familia pueda prosperar. 

¿Qué significan las leyes de santuario de Oregón para usted?  
Las leyes de santuario de Oregón garantizan que todas las personas en nuestro estado puedan vivir, trabajar, estudiar y acceder a servicios gubernamentales sin temor a la discriminación ni a investigaciones innecesarias sobre su información personal. Estas leyes también aseguran que las agencias públicas, incluyendo DELC, se enfoquen en lo más importante: apoyar a los niños, las familias y los proveedores.  

Para los proveedores de cuidado infantil y las familias, esto significa: 

Salud y seguridad primero: El función de DELC es regular los estándares de salud y seguridad en los centros de cuidado infantil. Las visitas de rutina, inspecciones y procesos de licencia están diseñados exclusivamente para garantizar centros seguros y saludables para los niños. 

Igualdad de acceso: Todas las personas en Oregón pueden participar en programas y servicios, incluido el cuidado infantil, sin temor a que su información personal sea compartida o mal utilizada. 

Apoyo comunitario: DELC está aquí para apoyar a los proveedores de cuidado infantil y a las familias con recursos, capacitación y orientación para ayudar a los niños a prosperar. 

¿Qué puede esperar?  
Puede confiar en que DELC continuará priorizando la salud, seguridad y bienestar de los niños de Oregón. Las inspecciones y visitas de rutina de nuestro equipo no se verán afectadas por cambios recientes y tienen el único propósito de ayudar a los proveedores de cuidado infantil a cumplir con los estándares de seguridad. 

Ningún miembro del personal del Departamento de Aprendizaje Temprano y Cuidado (DELC), incluidos los especialistas en licencias que visitan instalaciones de cuidado infantil para monitorear requisitos de salud y seguridad, está autorizado para compartir el estado migratorio de un proveedor de cuidado infantil o de una familia que participe en los programas de DELC sin una orden judicial firmada explícitamente por un juez. 

Nuestra misión es crear un sistema en el que cada niño tenga acceso a oportunidades de aprendizaje temprano y cuidado de alta calidad, y creemos que esto comienza con promover la confianza y la colaboración en nuestras comunidades. 

Estamos aquí para usted 
Gracias por su dedicación a nuestros niños y comunidades. Juntos, podemos seguir haciendo de Oregón un lugar donde cada niño y familia pueda prosperar. 

Para más información sobre la Ley de la Promesa del Santuario de Oregón y su implementación en agencias estatales, visite:https://www.doj.state.or.us/oregon-department-of-justice/civil-rights/sanctuary-promise/ O contacte directamente a DELC enviando un correo electrónico a early.learning@delc.oregon.gov. 

Recursos adicionales para programas de aprendizaje temprano y familias:  

Recursos del Departamento de Justicia de Oregón 

Organizaciones asociadas y comunitarias 

Recursos de Organizaciones Comunitarias y Socios – Edad Temprana  

Si desea obtener las últimas versiones actualizadas de estos recursos o preguntas relacionadas, póngase en contacto con los organismos que los han autorizado. Apreciamos su constante dedicación a apoyar a todos los niños y familias de Oregón. 

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