 The top features "Monthly NEWSLETTER" in large green font, with the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) logo in the upper right. A dark green bar below that reads "Colorado Department of Early Childhood" on the left and "AUGUST 2025" on the right. The main image is a cheerful young child with dark hair and a red headband, wearing a red backpack and laughing, with a "BACK to SCHOOL" graphic overlaid on the right, featuring a red apple.
In This Issue:
 A group of early childhood leaders on stage at the CU Denver School of Education & Human Development for the Alumni Leadership Awards. "A NOTE FROM CDEC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR" is overlaid on a blue banner.
A Note From CDEC Executive Director
To My Early Childhood Community,
Happy Back-to-School Season! What an exciting and busy month we are embarking upon, whether your child is starting childcare or preschool, you are setting up home visits for the coming year, or you are gearing up to educate our youngest learners.
The start of the school year brings fresh beginnings: a chance to create new routines, witness children grow and develop, and, for many who are dropping their kids off, an opportunity to refocus on wellness and growth personally and professionally.
As the children return to childcare homes and classrooms, I wanted to share some brief and personal thoughts with those of you serving Colorado kids.
To our early educators who offer trusted care while families are working or in school, you are nurturing the potential of Colorado’s children and providing a solid foundation for our communities to thrive. We are so grateful for you, and I encourage you to carve out moments for self-care and to recognize the profound difference you are making!
To our partners and my fellow CDEC public servants, this is also a busy season for us and a testament to our purpose and passion. The vital role we play in providing high-quality care and education to children is no small feat, and we grow stronger every year. I am so proud to work alongside such talented and hardworking individuals!
 Two Images. On the left, Executive Director Dr. Lisa Roy, along with CDEC Division Director of Community & Family Support, Dr. Floyd Cobb, and CDEC State and Community Partnerships Manager Kristina Heyl pose with other early childhood teamsr. On the right, the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accesssibility (EDIA) team hosted an Equity Forum with a variety of panelists. The panelists are seated in front of a projection screen.
Leading up to this month, I’ve been on a journey of my own to gear up for the 2025-26 school year. I met with changemakers on the Western Slope at Eagle County Human Services, Mountain Valley Developmental Services, STRiVE Developmental Services, and the Clifton Community Center.
I was also inspired by my time at the Governor’s Summer 2025 Executive Internship Speaker Series, where I discussed leadership and government careers with young, emerging leaders in Colorado. Additionally, I attended the Education Commission of the States (ECS) 2025 National Forum on Education Policy in Salt Lake City, sharing with and learning from early education leaders across our nation.
Internally, I participated in the CDEC Equity Forum, hosted by our exceptional EDIA team, and featuring talented panelists, speakers, and community members. It was a joyous and restorative experience, fostering a strong sense of connection. Also, the Executive Director Office Team (EDOT) hosted a vibrant, all-staff BBQ on July 31st!
Finally, I had the privilege of presiding over the CU Denver School of Education & Human Development 2025 Early Childhood Education Luminaries award ceremony, celebrating esteemed colleagues and close friends.
In my personal life, I was honored to be named one of the Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Business by the Colorado Women's Chamber of Commerce! Now, I'm concluding the summer season by taking a much-needed vacation.
I cannot wait for all that is yet to come during the 2025-26 school year. Thank you for your continued support, and Happy Back-To-School Season!
With Gratitude,
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 A blue banner with "Programs and Resources for All Families: RAISING COLORADO KIDS PLATFORM Now LIVE!" and logos for Raising Colorado Kids and the Colorado Department of Early Childhood. The right side features a cartoon illustration of a park with a playground, trees, and city skyline.
Raising Colorado Kids
Back-to-School Support with Raising Colorado Kids
Make this back-to-school transition smooth! Raising Colorado Kids connects your family with essential early education, healthcare, and parenting programs. Explore resources at https://raisingcoloradokids.com/en/
 A book cart filled with colorful children's books is shown in a library setting, with a blurred background of bookshelves. A teal overlay on the left reads "CDEC POLICY & LEGISLATION" next to an icon of a book.
CDEC Policy & Legislation
Upcoming Rulemaking Meetings
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RAC County Subcommittee Meeting (ZOOM Link)
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Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025
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Time: 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
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Topic(s):
- Proposed permanent rules to support fund stacking for children dually enrolled in the Colorado Universal Preschool Program (UPK) and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP).
- Informational Presentation on the Division of Early Learning, Licensing, and Administration’s (DELLA) Child Care Centers and Outdoor Nature-Based Preschool Program’s (ONB) rules.
- Informational Presentation on the second phase of implementing Colorado House Bill 24-1223 and Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) changes for CCCAP.
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Rules Advisory Council (RAC) Meeting (ZOOM Link)
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Date: Thursday, August 14, 2025
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Time: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
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Topic(s):
- Proposed permanent rules to support fund stacking for children dually enrolled in UPK and CCCAP.
- Informational Presentation on the Division of Early Learning, Licensing, and Administration’s (DELLA) Child Care Centers and Outdoor Nature-Based Preschool Program’s (ONB) rules.
- Informational Presentation on the second phase of implementing HB24-1223 and CCDF changes for CCCAP.
- Finalization of the amendments to the RAC Bylaws.
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Public Rulemaking Hearing (ZOOM Link)
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Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
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Time: 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
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Permanent Rulemaking:
- The Executive Director will consider permanent adoption of the proposed rules to support fund stacking for children dually enrolled in UPK and CCCAP.
Submit Written Feedback
Please submit all rulemaking related questions, or written comments regarding the proposed rules to CDEC_Rulemaking@state.co.us.
How to Stay Informed
Sign up to receive Rulemaking Notifications and review the CDEC Rule Tracker to monitor and track the progress of the Department’s rulemaking proceedings.
A group of four smiling graduates in purple caps and gowns holding diplomas, with Community College of Denver professor, Patricia Matus Amat. "YOUR STORIES" is overlaid on a red banner with a yellow pencil illustration.
Your Stories
We're constantly inspired by the dedication and passion within Colorado's early childhood community, and this month, we're sharing two remarkable stories that highlight their impact. Learn how the Community College of Denver (CCD) is guiding Spanish-speaking caregivers to gain vital Early Childhood Education certifications by offering courses in their native language.
Next, discover the heartwarming story behind Tori’s Tater Tots, an in-home daycare born from a deep connection to family and community. These stories are a testament to the ongoing efforts to make the early childhood space better and more inclusive for everyone!
 Three images from the Community College of Denver graduation. On the left, a group of graduates posing with Professor Patricia Matus Amat. Center image, Patricia Matus Amat is posing with another graduate. Right image, a group of graduates pose with Professor Patricia Matus Amat with their diplomas.
Community College of Denver (CCD) Empowers Spanish-Speaking Caregivers
“Many caregivers work in the field and don't have the education needed because of language barriers. Since we started offering these classes in Spanish, it’s amazing how many people came to the program and really appreciated the opportunity,” said Patricia Matus Amat, an Early Childhood Education (ECE) Faculty Member at the Community College of Denver (CCD).
Offering ECE courses in Spanish at CCD expands access for those who wish to enter or advance in the early childhood field, promotes high-quality care, and builds students' confidence in their English language abilities!
“They expressed that they want to continue and take classes in English because they feel more confident now that they can do it,” Patricia continued.
Thank you for sharing your story with us, Patricia, and congratulations to the CCD graduates!
 A split image shows two brightly decorated children's learning spaces. On the left, a rainbow-colored rug with concentric circles lies beneath a pink chair, and educational posters hang on the wall. On the right, a green couch sits on a map-themed rug, with a tree-shaped play structure nearby.
From Dream to Reality: The Story Behind Tori’s Tater Tots
Opening my in-home daycare wasn’t just a professional goal—it was the realization of a heartfelt dream, built on love, family, and a deep connection to my community. Since first becoming involved in early childhood work in 2020, I envisioned a place where children could feel safe, supported, and celebrated for who they are. That dream became a reality in the summer of 2023 when I opened Tori’s Tater Tots.
The name Tori’s Tater Tots carries special meaning. As a child, my Aunt Laura lovingly called me Spud, a nickname that made me feel unique and loved. Years later, when my husband and I were expecting our daughter, she nicknamed her our little Tater Tot. The name represents not only generations of love but also the heart and spirit behind my daycare. When it came time to name my business, Tori’s Tater Tots was a perfect reflection of my journey—personal, playful, and full of care.
Since opening, the growth—both personal and professional—has been incredible. I owe so much to my amazing support system: my husband and daughter, who have been by my side every step of the way, and my family and friends, whose love and encouragement helped build this dream from the ground up.
I’m also deeply thankful for the unwavering support of the Early Childhood partnership of Adams County. Coaches like Toni and Corri have offered guidance, mentorship, and support at every turn—whether through a quick phone call, a late-night text, or a weekend email. Their dedication and belief in me has been immeasurable. To the amazing women who answered every question with patience and grace—thank you. Your support helped bring this dream to life.
Today, Tori’s Tater Tots is more than a daycare. It’s a home where children laugh, learn, and grow. It’s a place built on heart, history, and a whole lot of joy.
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 A group of CDEC staff and colleagues standing together in a line indoors, with "INSIDE CDEC: HIGHLIGHTS & HAPPENINGS" overlaid on a red banner.
Inside CDEC: Highlights & Happenings
 CDEC staff smiling and posing at the Willow Ridge Manor.
WE.LOVE.OUR.TEAM!
The 2025 CDEC Annual Employee BBQ yesterday was pure joy.
Our time at Willow Ridge Manor in Morrison was filled with laughter, great food, fun activities, connection, and plenty of celebration.
We also took a special moment to recognize those who have dedicated 5, 10, 15, and 20 years to serving Colorado - true inspirations! The CDEC is made up of passionate, hard-working individuals, each of whom are driven to make Colorado a better place for kids and families.
And when we come together?
We form an unstoppable force, moving mountains to shape Colorado’s early childhood landscape for the better. We’re so grateful for these dedicated public servants!
CDEC Staff Shining Bright
We're thrilled to celebrate Sena Harjo on the successful completion of her doctoral program! We are incredibly proud of Dr. Harjo's immense dedication, hard work, and this remarkable achievement. Congratulations!
Sena Harjo, our very own CDEC Tribal Liaison and Community Engagement Lead, has recently completed her Doctorate of Education (PhD) from the University of Colorado Denver. She successfully defended her doctoral dissertation in June of 2025 which focused on the educational experience of American Indian and Alaska Native students. This research explored the educational experiences of the local Denver-metro American Indian and Alaska Native community to provide a deeper understanding of educational harm, systematic educational colonization, and the power of culturally responsive educational environments for American Indian and Alaska Native students.
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Rocky Mountain PBS Kids Fest
We had a fantastic time connecting with families at the Rocky Mountain PBS Kids Fest! Our CDEC team joined other family-focused organizations for a day filled with play, learning, and face painting.
We loved speaking with hundreds of families, sharing valuable resources like our PLAYbook, and building stronger connections within our communities.
 Two images. On the left, a quote “I'm grateful to have been a part of it! Thanks for letting me join! Not only did we get to connect with those we serve in the state, but it was in my neighborhood, so I felt a strong sense of connection with my immediate community! I'm feeling so fulfilled and am looking forward to more events like this,” from Jen White, Program Assistant on a red background. Jen White, Program Assistant, expressing gratitude and fulfillment about connecting with the community. On the right, CDEC staff, Jen White, Teri Pinney, and Michelle Snively-Gonzalez, and two children are smiling at an outdoor event table with coloring activities, with colorful playground equipment in the background.
The event reinforced our commitment to serving all Colorado families, and we look forward to attending future events!
Missed us? Access the PLAYbook in 8 languages and as a Tribal Resource here: https://bit.ly/4bZE9Sk
Next PBS Kids Fest Event: Saturday, October 4, 2025.
More Information at: https://www.rmpbs.org/events/pbskidsfestwesternslope
2025 National Forum on Education Policy
CDEC Executive Director Dr. Lisa Roy was honored to represent our Department at the 2025 National Forum on Education Policy in Salt Lake City earlier this month!
With over six decades of impact, the ECS National Forum on Education Policy brings together key education leaders from all 50 U.S. states and territories. Conversations at this forum drive effective policy changes in education, turning ideas into action and addressing critical issues.
The early childhood sector was well-represented, and we look forward to the resounding, positive changes that will come from this gathering of leaders.
Thank you to all the brilliant minds who made this forum a success!
Congratulations to the 2025 Early Childhood Education Luminaries!
This week, the CU Denver School of Education & Human Development honored five transformative leaders in Colorado's early childhood sector at its Alumni Leadership Awards ceremony.
CDEC Executive Director Dr. Lisa Roy, a 2024 award recipient, was honored to preside over the event and celebrate her esteemed colleagues.
 Colorado Governor Jared Polis, Former Colorado Governor Roy Romer, Chancellor Kenneth Christensen, Dean Marvin Lynn, Dr. Lisa Roy, Reed Martin, and 2025 SEHD Alumni Leadership Award recipients
We wish to express our profound gratitude to the distinguished leaders featured. Their unwavering commitment and positive influence continue to strengthen our initiatives.
- Rosemarie Allen, EdD'16, Professor of Early Childhood Education at Metropolitan State University of Denver and President and CEO of the Institute for Racial Equity and Excellence
- Barbara Cooper, PhD ‘09 and MA ‘95, Senior Vice President, Professional Learning, Start Early
- Alison Maher, MA'01, Visionary Director, Boulder Journey School
- Heather Tritten, MA'15, President and CEO, Colorado Children's Campaign
- Gerrit Westervelt, PhD ‘01, Senior Advisor for Partnership Development at Teachstone
A cheerful young girl with blonde pigtails sits next to a pink backpack, holding a small chalkboard that says "Back to School." A blue banner on the left reads "COMMUNITY & FAMILY SUPPORT" with a stylized pencil icon above it.
Community & Family Support
Feature Program Spotlight: The Incredible Years® – Building Foundations for Success
The Colorado Department of Early Childhood is proud to highlight The Incredible Years® (IY), a powerful suite of evidence-based programs dedicated to fostering the mental health and social-emotional growth of young children. Supported in Colorado by Invest in Kids (IIK), IY programs work to equip children with essential skills for school and life by strengthening positive relationships between parents, teachers, and children.
How The Incredible Years® Supports Children and Families:
The IY suite offers three core components, each designed to meet specific needs:
- Teacher Classroom Management (TCM): Equips early care providers with effective, positive classroom management strategies, focusing on building strong relationships with all children, including those with challenging behaviors, and promoting productive learning environments.
- Dinosaur School: A social-emotional curriculum delivered directly in preschool through first-grade classrooms. Through engaging lessons, children learn vital skills such as problem-solving, anger control, self-monitoring emotions, and forming healthy friendships.
- Preschool BASIC Parenting Program: This 14-week program empowers parents with practical strategies to enhance their child's social competence and reduce behavioral challenges. Topics include effective praise, establishing routines, limit-setting, and teaching problem-solving skills.
Eligibility & Access:
- The Parent Program primarily serves families with children aged two to eight, with a focus on ages two to five by many vendors.
- Teacher Classroom Management and Dinosaur School are designed for preschool-aged classrooms.
- Programs are offered at no cost to families.
- Eligibility criteria and enrollment processes are managed by individual vendors, which may include school districts, child care programs, mental health centers, or family resource centers. Dinosaur School is typically available only to children enrolled at participating child care centers.
Find a Program Near You:
To discover where The Incredible Years® programs are offered in your county, including details on program locations and how to enroll, please visit the Invest in Kids website:
https://iik.org/programs/the-incredible-years/
Child care providers or school districts interested in implementing The Incredible Years® program are encouraged to contact our partners at Invest in Kids for more information.
2-1-1 Search Service for Free School Supplies
Don't let back-to-school expenses break your budget! Find free school supplies near you by calling 2-1-1 or visiting the School Supplies page on the 2-1-1 website.
This confidential and multilingual service connects Coloradans to essential resources, including support for child care, education, food, housing, employment, and more. View all services today on the 2-1-1 website.
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It's not too late for families to claim their 2024 Colorado tax credits!
Eligible Colorado families can still claim thousands of dollars with Colorado's new Family Affordability Tax Credit and other state tax credits until October 15th. Coloradans can visit Get Ahead Colorado to find resources that help make filing taxes easier, including free online filing.
Families can calculate their potential refunds in seconds using this Colorado-specific tax credit calculator!
Colorado LIFTS! Launches: New Mental Health Access and System Navigation
 A large crowd of people, many wearing green, stand on the steps of a building with their hands raised in the air, celebrating the launch of the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration's new Colorado LIFT initiative. A banner reads "Connecting Colorado to Behavioral Healthcare.”
CDEC staff felt privileged to attend the launch of the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration's new Colorado LIFTS initiative, which provides essential mental health support for ALL Coloradoans!
We’re excited to see the incredible impact Colorado LIFTS will have on families!
Learn more: bha.colorado.gov/gethelp
Join the 2025 Child Care Facility Development Technical Assistance Cohort
Applications are open for the Child Care Facility Development Technical Assistance Cohort of 2025, offered in partnership between Executives Partnering to Invest in Children (EPIC), DOLA, Colorado Department of Early Childhood, and Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade.
This cohort is designed to support project teams and partnerships in the planning stage of a child care facility to understand:
- Best practices
- Successful approaches to development
- How to engage your network to ensure quality and sustainability
Apply by August 6: https://lnkd.in/gHaqjTGz
In the Press: National HIPPY Recognition
We are incredibly proud of Focus Points Family Resource Center and Jefferson County Public Schools for achieving national recognition from HIPPY International!
Their hard work in advancing early childhood education through parent-led home-visiting programs is making a real difference in strengthening early learning at home and preparing children for school success.
These commendations are well-deserved and reflect their unwavering commitment to early learning, parent leadership, and family empowerment.
Read the full press release.
Two Generations, One Goal: HIPPY Sharpens School Readiness in Colorado
As Colorado families gear up for the new school year, we naturally think of the classroom setting. However, the Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) program is making a powerful impact—right from the living room. HIPPY programs typically follow the school year calendar and provide structured, at-home visits and parent-led lessons. HIPPY supports both children and caregivers in preparing for kindergarten and lifelong learning.
Research shows that children in HIPPY demonstrate measurable gains in school readiness, kindergarten adjustment, and long-term academic outcomes, including higher standardized test scores in reading, math, and social studies. (Click HERE for the HIPPY Colorado 2022-23 State Snapshot.)
HIPPY parents are empowered to become confident educators and advocates. Weekly role-play sessions help caregivers build skills, deepen their understanding of early development, and strengthen parent-child relationships. The result? More engaged families and smoother transitions into the classroom.
Expanding Access Across Colorado
As a result of support provided by the Colorado Department of Early Childhood, alongside federal and other state agencies and private foundations, HIPPY continues to grow across the state. CDEC partners with Parent Possible, the model intermediary in Colorado, to expand the program into more rural and underserved communities. In the 2022–2023 program year, HIPPY operated eight sites across 19 counties—serving 753 children through nearly 16,000 home visits, bringing early learning directly into families' homes. Through the HIPPY Expansion Project, between 2023 and 2026, HIPPY is reaching additional children in areas such as Boulder, Park, and Teller Counties.
Back-to-School Boost
As communities across Colorado head back to school, HIPPY continues to shine as a model of two-generation support—where parents and children grow, learn, and thrive together.
For more information, or to find a HIPPY program near you, visit https://parentpossible.org/hippy/
— Jackie Cordova, HIPPY Program Director, Parent Possible
— Joyce Johnson, CDEC Home Visiting Supervisor
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 A group of young children with backpacks walk past a yellow school bus, with a purple overlay on the left that says "EARLY CHILDHOOD WORKFORCE" and features a backpack icon.
Early Childhood Workforce
ECMH Orientation Recap: A Transformative Start to the Year!
The ECMH Unit recently hosted our annual Program Orientation for the Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation Program, and it was nothing short of inspiring.
Day One invited consultants into a reflective exploration of core beliefs and featured a powerful presentation from the CDEC Licensing Team. Attendees enjoyed a restorative sound bath to support emotional balance, dove into data, and engaged in a dynamic panel with members of the statewide consultation team. The day wrapped with a review of the nuts and bolts of the Colorado model of consultation and a keynote by Dr. Sarah Watamura, professor of psychology at the University of Denver, who shared cutting-edge insights into stress and resilience.
Day Two kept the momentum going with a deep dive into model fidelity, a rejuvenating Zen Den session using light and sound therapy, continued data exploration, and meaningful Community of Practice work.
Here’s to a year of impactful, aligned, and grounded consultation work across Colorado!
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Essential Early Childhood Support in the Mountains
CDEC loved connecting with the teams at Eagle County Government Human Services, Mountain Valley Developmental Services, Strive Colorado Developmental Services, and the Clifton Community Campus on a recent trip!
CDEC Executive Director Dr. Lisa Roy, along with CDEC Division Director of Community & Family Support, Dr. Floyd Cobb, and CDEC State and Community Partnerships Manager Kristina Heyl, had the privilege of visiting to learn about their vital work in early childhood programs and services.
We are so grateful for their dedication and for sharing their insights on program implementation, successes, and challenges. These visits are invaluable for understanding how we can best support children and families in Colorado!
3 Keys to Unlock a Better Future for Kids
At the recent Administration for Children and Families - ACF 2025 State and Territory Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) Administrators Meeting (STAM), CDEC staff took note of three ideas that should be prioritized to strengthen the early childhood sector nationwide:
- Consider what matters for child outcomes, and invest in data-driven practices that support families in improving them.
- Give states and programs the flexibility to design and implement solutions, and emphasize parent choice.
- Focus on state-led decisions to promote efficient and responsive governance.
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