SALEM, ORE. –The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) works closely with the Oregon Head Start Association through programs that support early learning, health, and family wellbeing while engaging parents as partners. On Friday,  agency leadership joined Head Start staff and partners from the Oregon Head Start Association along with representatives from the Governor’s office in honor of the 60th anniversary for a tour of the Community Action Head Start Center in Silverton.  

“Head Start’s transformative programs have positively impacted the lives of children and their families since inception in 1965,” said Nancy Perin, OHSA Executive Director. “For the last six decades, we’ve seen the way Head Start programs improve school readiness, reduce learning disabilities, help to increase graduation and to enhance family well being among numerous other positive outcomes. Head Start programs positively set up children and families to succeed and continue to be a force for good.” 

“It’s wonderful to help elevate this significant milestone,” said DELC Director Alyssa Chatterjee. “After working alongside the Oregon Head Start Association, I can attest to the tremendous impact Head Start Preschool and Early Head Start programs are making each day to families across Oregon. This anniversary is an opportunity to elevate the high quality services that make Head Start so impactful for families here and across the nation.”  

Governor Tina Kotek signed a proclamation in celebration of Head Start’s birthday which will take place on May 18. The Governor also recently provided celebratory video remarks to Head Start staff and partners at their State Director meeting: “In Oregon, we’ve seen firsthand that when we support children and families early on, the impacts are immeasurable,” said Governor Kotek. “Happy 60th anniversary …here’s to many more decades of transforming lives, one child, one family, one community at a time.” 

Head Start programs utilize a unique federal-to-local structure to tailor services to each community and serve children from diverse backgrounds including rural communities, children with disabilities, those experiencing homelessness, and dual language learners. DELC administers the Oregon Prenatal to Kindergarten (OPK) program. OPK is modeled after the successful federal Early Head Start and Head Start Preschool program and serves children from prenatal to five years old. Since OPK’s establishment in 1987, tens of thousands of children and their families have benefited from the program. Programming is available across all 36 Oregon counties. 

Education is only one component of the impactful work of Head Start. In addition to early childhood education, Head Start programs support family well-being by connecting families to medical and dental care while helping parents achieve family goals, such as housing stability, continued education, and financial security. Oregon also offers Early Head Start and Head Start supports for children from Migrant and Seasonal working families along with additional American Indian and Alaska Native Head Start programs administered by the federal government. 

“No matter their background or zip code, Head Start helps to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive regardless of circumstances,” said Chatterjee. “As we celebrate this milestone, we reflect on the multiple comprehensive services provided by Head Start staff to children and families. We share our appreciation for the dedication that these community partners bring to improving educational opportunities for some of Oregon’s most vulnerable children.“ 

These free, high-quality early care and education services and wrap around supports are available to families including pregnant people/expectant families. To find out more about eligibility or to find a Head Start center visit: Head Start Center Locator | ECLKC (hhs.gov)  

Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care Leaders Visit Early Education Programs in Celebration of Child Care Provider Appreciation Day  

SALEM, ORE. –The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) celebrates the work of providers on Child Care Provider Appreciation Day. Provider Appreciation Day recognizes the child care workforce and their important contributions to young children, families, and communities. DELC Leadership representatives spent the morning visiting with early learning educators at The Exploration Center in Dallas and Diaz Day Care in Salem.  

“Every day, child care providers like you are making a difference – not just for the children in your care, but for their families and the very fabric of Oregon’s economy,”  said DELC Director Alyssa Chatterjee while speaking to providers in Dallas. “You are shaping futures, making it possible for parents to work with peace of mind – knowing their children are safe and loved. Today, we celebrate you and extend our deepest gratitude for the profound difference you make in so many lives.”  

Earlier this month Governor Tina Kotek issued a statewide proclamation officially designating May 9, 2025 as Child Care Provider Appreciation Day. The Day is celebrated annually across the country on the Friday before Mother’s Day as a way to say “thank you” to the educators and care professionals positively shaping the lives of young children. 

Some families are choosing to celebrate Provider Appreciation Day with a card or flowers for their care provider. Community members are encouraged to tag DELC on social media with pictures or words of appreciation.