 A group photo, including Governor Polis and Dr. Lisa Roy, standing outdoors. Large text overlay: Monthly NEWSLETTER and Colorado Department of Early Childhood DECEMBER 2025.
In This Issue:
 CDEC Executive Director Dr. Lisa Roy smiling with two other early childhood leaders. Overlay text: A NOTE FROM CDEC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.
A Note From CDEC Executive Director
To My Early Childhood Family,
As we settled into the rhythm of late fall and prepare for the holiday season, I was once again reminded of the strength of our Colorado communities and of the shared purpose that unites us. This past month offered many moments of connection, gratitude, and progress across our early childhood system.
We joyously celebrated Native American and Indigenous Heritage Month, including a meaningful gathering at the Governor’s Residence that honored the ongoing contributions of Native American communities in Colorado. I’m deeply grateful to Sena Harjo, our CDEC Tribal Liaison, and to the Tribal Advisory Council for their continued partnership and leadership.
November offered so many meaningful moments to connect with the people who bring our early childhood system to life. I visited First Steps at Monarch Montessori of Denver and joined Governor Polis at the Little Giants Center to see firsthand the dedication of early childhood educators who pour their hearts into creating joyful, safe, and enriching spaces for children. I was also thrilled to join Early Milestones Colorado at their 10th-anniversary celebration. It was an evening that reminded all of us of the power of imagination, collaboration, and community.
We continued elevating important conversations statewide. I joined Senator Hickenlooper and partners for a roundtable on the Child Care Modernization Grant Act, further underscoring Colorado’s commitment to building a more responsive, equitable system for families.
 Triptych showing: (Left) A panel discussion with Dr. Lisa Roy; (Center) A group seated at a long conference table; (Right) Governor Polis at a podium outside the Governor's Residence with a turkey and a child in the foreground.
This month also brought moments of celebration and connection within the broader early childhood community. From the Governor’s Annual Turkey Pardon, to the Clayton Early Learning and Early Milestones 10th Anniversary—each gathering reflected the passion and commitment driving our work forward.
I also want to share a brief personal moment from this month. My eldest son started a new role, running a non-profit that provides supportive housing to adults with disabilities. I am proud of my grown children and celebrate their accomplishments. Also, my grandson turned 13. Time flies, as we all know too well. Finally, I spent Thanksgiving week with my fiancé celebrating his retirement. These everyday celebrations and reminders of joy and humanity always refuel my commitment to this work.
As we approach the holidays and look ahead to a new year, I am filled with gratitude. Your dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to Colorado’s children and families are what make our state a leader in early childhood. Thank you for showing up every day with heart and purpose.
As we reflect on this busy season and prepare for the promise of the year ahead, I encourage you to continue leaning into community and into the shared passion that guides our work. I look forward to connecting with you again soon and continuing this vital journey together in 2026.
With Gratitude,
Dr. Roy
Celebrate Colorado's Early Childhood Champions!
Colorado's early childhood champions are the foundation of Colorado's future, shaping our state's future by helping children learn, grow, and thrive. From classrooms to child care centers, and in homes and communities across the state, these heroes bring care, creativity, and dedication to young learners and their families every day.
Join us in recognizing the extraordinary commitment of all those who make a difference. Anyone can be nominated, including educators, home visitors, dedicated parent volunteers, and the many other leaders and professionals who support early childhood in Colorado. Let's share their inspiring stories across the state!
 ¡Celebremos a los campeones de la primera infancia de Colorado!
Los campeones de la primera infancia de Colorado son la base del futuro de nuestro estado, ya que ayudan a los niños a aprender, crecer y prosperar. Desde las aulas hasta los centros de cuidado infantil, y en los hogares y comunidades de todo el estado, estos héroes brindan cuidado, creatividad y dedicación a los niños pequeños y a sus familias todos los días.
Únase a nosotros para reconocer el extraordinario compromiso de todas las personas que marcan la diferencia. Cualquier persona puede ser nominada, incluidos educadores, visitadores domiciliarios, padres voluntarios dedicados y muchos otros líderes y profesionales que apoyan la primera infancia en Colorado. ¡Compartamos sus historias inspiradoras en todo el estado!
 "Happy Holidays!" text displayed on a vibrant red background alongside a photo collage showing diverse families celebrating winter holidays, including a family by a Christmas tree, a family sharing a festive meal, a father and son with a Hanukkah menorah, and a group opening gifts.
Happy Holidays!
As the year winds down, the CDEC team extends our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones for a season filled with joy, goodwill, and every happiness. We hope this time brings you moments of reflection and connection. We also wish you a prosperous and successful New Year ahead!
As the year comes to a close, we would love to celebrate the spirit of connection and community. Do you have a favorite holiday story, tradition, or moment of festive warmth you'd like to share with the CDEC community?
Help us spread cheer and inspiration by sharing your tales.
Click the link below to submit your story:
 A smiling mother and father holding their baby. Overlay text: COMMUNITY & FAMILY SUPPORT.
Community & Family Support
$1,200 Care Worker Tax Credit
Parents: You know the importance of your child's care givers! Help us spread the word about the new $1,200 Colorado Care Worker Tax Credit available to those who regularly watch children age 5 or younger by sharing this flyer with them. Licensed family child care providers, center-based teachers, Family, Friend and Neighbor caregivers, nannies and grandparents may be eligible!
Colorado public health officials identify measles case in a Montezuma County resident, announce potential exposures in Cortez and Mancos
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the Montezuma County Public Health Agency have identified a case of measles in a Montezuma County resident. The school-aged child, who had not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, developed symptoms of measles after recently traveling to an area of another state where there is an ongoing measles outbreak. Health officials are issuing an alert to the public about potential community exposures that may have occurred between Nov. 5 and 11.
Based on available information, people in Cortez and Mancos may have been exposed to measles and should monitor for symptoms and consider avoiding public gatherings or high-risk settings through Dec. 4. Monitoring for symptoms is especially critical for people who have not been vaccinated with the MMR vaccine.
Read the full press release.
Early Childhood Leadership Commission
The Early Childhood Leadership Commission (ECLC) is Colorado’s federally- authorized state advisory council for early childhood. The role of the ECLC is to be a statewide leader, subject matter expert and champion of best and promising practices throughout the state.
The ECLC is statutorily charged to:
- Assist public and private agencies in coordinating efforts to enhance alignment, which includes collaboration among six state departments.
- Advise and make recommendations to the Department of Early Childhood and other state agencies.
- Develop strategies and monitor efforts to increase the access, quality and equity of services and supports on behalf of pregnant women and people and children birth through age eight.
Visit the ECLC website for more information and how you can get involved.
Child Care Access: The Essential Investment for Colorado's Workforce
Child care is no longer just a family issue, it’s a critical economic factor shaping Colorado's workforce. When families can't find affordable, high-quality care, it forces parents, especially women, to step back from their jobs, education, and career advancement.
These challenges create tangible problems for businesses across the state:
- Reduced Workforce Stability: Difficulty retaining valuable, experienced employees.
- Increased Absenteeism: Parents must miss work when care arrangements fall through.
- Limited Talent Pipeline: Fewer opportunities for families to advance their careers and contribute fully to the economy.
CDEC Executive Director, Dr. Lisa Roy, emphasizes that the solution is clear: "When families have access to consistent, high-quality care, children thrive, and parents are better able to participate fully in the workforce."
Expanding access to reliable child care isn't just about supporting families; it's a vital part of strengthening our communities and ensuring employers have the stable, committed workforce they need to succeed.
Read the full story to understand the scope of this challenge in Colorado: Childcare shortages and freezes force Colorado moms to choose between work and family
Outdoor Learning: A Powerful Partnership for Colorado's Youngest Learners
 A large group, including team members from Early Childhood Health Outdoors (ECHO), the National Wildlife Federation, Monarch Montessori, Little Giants Learning Center, Governor Jared Polis and Dr. Lisa Roy, stand together in the sunny outdoor learning space at Little Giants Learning Center.
The world of landscape architecture and the National Wildlife Federation might seem like unexpected allies in early childhood, but their collaboration highlights a critical truth: nature-rich environments are essential for healthy development in children.
CDEC Executive Director Dr. Lisa Roy recently joined Governor Jared Polis, Early Childhood Health Outdoors (ECHO), and the National Wildlife Federation to tour exemplary outdoor learning spaces at Monarch Montessori of Denver and Little Giants Learning Center.
These visits beautifully demonstrated how thoughtful, intentional outdoor design can provide incredible benefits for children from birth to age five, supporting:
- Exploration and Discovery
- Creativity and Imagination
- Strong Developmental Foundations
A huge thank you to both Monarch Montessori and Little Giants Learning Center for showcasing the powerful way outdoor environments contribute to healthier beginnings for Colorado’s youngest learners.
FFN Advisory Council Releases Key Recommendations to Support Family, Friend, and Neighbor Care
The Family, Friend, and Neighbor Advisory Council (FFNAC) has released its comprehensive report, "Recommendations from the Family, Friend & Neighbor Advisory Council," outlining key strategies to enhance support for the vital Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) child care community in Colorado. FFN care is the most prevalent form of child care, particularly among families of color and low-income families, and is estimated to care for over half of Colorado's children.
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Findings from 2024 Colorado Child Care Policy Research Partnership Study on Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation
In partnership with the Colorado Department of Early Childhood, Urban Institute researchers interviewed child care providers and quality-focused early childhood professionals and analyzed administrative data to understand how ECMHC—a cornerstone of the state’s early childhood system—supports children’s mental and behavioral health across diverse care settings.
Reported benefits from ECMHC included improved emotional well-being, a more positive classroom environment, increased family engagement and connection to needed services, and more.
 Two young girls playing with wooden toys in a bright classroom. Overlay text: COLORADO UNIVERSAL PRESCHOOL UPDATE
Colorado Universal Preschool
Family Enrollment for 2026-2027 starts December 9, 2025
 A three-part image showing diverse young children in a preschool setting: drawing, playing in a kitchen set, and sitting for story time. Text: FAMILY ENROLLMENT OPENS IN DECEMBER!
Family enrollment for the next 2026-27 Colorado Universal Preschool school year opens on December 9th, 2025, see the full timeline here! Family enrollment in the current 2025-26 Colorado Universal Preschool school year continues.
All children in their year before kindergarten can register for at least 15 hours of funding per week towards a high-quality preschool of their choice. Over 2,000 providers have applied to participate in the program this school year.
The timeline outlines the key milestones for the 2026-2027 Colorado Universal Preschool program year, focusing on the family registration, pre-registration, and matching rounds. It also details processes for non-IEP direct enrollment and IEP direct placement.
For more information, please visit the Universal Preschool Family Timeline 26-27
 A table of key dates for Colorado Universal Preschool next to an image of children drawing on a large piece of paper. Text: KEY DATES FOR COLORADO UNIVERSAL PRESCHOOL followed by a list of dates in 2025 and 2026.
UPK Resources:
 A woman and a young boy smiling while lying on the floor and playing with a wooden train set. Overlay text: EARLY CHILDHOOD WORKFORCE.
Early Childhood Workforce
The Essential Business Skills for Child Care Administrators" eLearning program is now LIVE!
The program is structured as a four-module, self-paced course which is uniquely enhanced by one-on-one business advising between each module to address and support your business's individual needs. This customized support is delivered through a partnership with the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) and the Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC), which is proud to offer no-cost, confidential one-on-one business advising and no- or low-cost training specifically designed for child care businesses.
Whether you are starting, growing, or planning to exit, this program provides essential skills in business planning, financial management, marketing, and more. Access expert guidance and valuable resources today to ensure you reach your business goals. In-person, hybrid, and virtual events will begin in January 2026.
Intergenerational Support: Older Coloradans Strengthening Early Childhood
A powerful partnership is emerging in Colorado's early childhood classrooms: Older Coloradans are stepping up to provide meaningful support for educators and programs dealing with staffing shortages.
This intergenerational model offers significant benefits that extend far beyond the classroom:
- Support for Educators: Provides much-needed assistance to teachers, helping them focus on instruction and care.
- Stronger Programs: Helps fill crucial staffing gaps, allowing programs to maintain stability and quality of care.
- Benefits for Seniors: Older adults find a sense of community and purpose by engaging with young children.
- Positive Developmental Impact: Children benefit from the wealth of experience and nurturing attention provided by caring seniors.
This initiative is a fantastic example of how we can strengthen communities and ensure that children, families, and educators across Colorado thrive.
See how this powerful model works and the positive impact it's having: Older Coloradans find community and fill crucial staffing gaps in early childhood classrooms
Infant Toddler Specialist Foundations Course Expanding
As a response to the needs of the Early Childhood Workforce, the Infant Toddler Specialist Course is expanding to include a Spanish track. This 70-hour specialized training is a requirement to become a credentialed Infant Toddler Specialist Trainer to facilitate EQIT courses across the state of Colorado. CDEC employees, Dusti Stanton and Leah Grossmann will be facilitating an English track, while Daniela Rios and Sofia Esteve will be facilitating a Spanish track.
 This will allow participants to learn in the language of their heart. The EQ Initiatives are excited to take this next step in meeting the diverse needs of needs of community. And to provide opportunities to the workforce that is caring for Colorado's youngest children. For more information about the EQ Initiatives, please contact cdec_eq@state.co.us
IECMH Council of Colorado Launches Better Together Mini Grants to Support the Workforce
The IECMH Council of Colorado is excited to announce the Better Together Mini Grant opportunity. Current Council members are eligible to apply. Funds are intended to drive collaboration among Council members and advance workforce goals and objectives articulated in the Elevating and Strengthening Colorado's Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Ecosystem: Strategic Plan 2025-2030. Applications should focus on collaboration and system building. Please direct any questions regarding the application to Lisa Schlueter (lisa.schlueter@state.co.us).
 A large group of people seated in a semi-circle during an indoor presentation. Overlay text: INSIDE CDEC: HIGHLIGHTS & HAPPENINGS.
Inside CDEC: Highlights & Happenings
Colorado Department of Early Childhood Independent Evaluation
On November 1, 2025, the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) released the findings of an independent, legislatively required evaluation of our first three years as a department.
The report highlights the tremendous progress Colorado has made towards building a unified, high-quality early childhood system, and highlights opportunities to continue to ensure Colorado’s early childhood system can support all families throughout the state. This evaluation is an important milestone in the Department’s journey and will guide our next phase of system-building.
Key Findings
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Expansion through local partnerships: School districts and community-based organizations partnered to add over 31,000 new preschool seats statewide in the first year of Colorado Universal Preschool, propelling Colorado from 27th to 3rd nationally for preschool access.
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Progress on data modernization: Through the successful implementation of ECIDS, CDEC has advanced the integration of child care licensing, Colorado Shines, the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP), and universal preschool program data, laying the groundwork for more comprehensive, evidence-based decision-making.
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Workforce investments: The Department successfully administered nearly $50 million in workforce development grants to support higher education scholarships, credential attainment, and compensation stipends for early educators across both school and community-based settings.
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Capacity building: The Department has demonstrated measurable gains in high-quality providers (up to 33.4%) and infant/toddler capacity (up 2.1%).
Next Steps
The CDEC will use the findings from the independent evaluation to guide the next phase of its work, moving from building foundational systems to optimizing and refining them for greater impact. Over the next several years, the Department will focus on simplifying and coordinating family access to early learning and care, strengthening collaboration with local governments, community organizations, and other state agencies, and deepening data integration through ECIDS to better inform policy and measure outcomes.
The Department also plans to continue investing in the early childhood workforce, ensuring stability, diversity, and professional growth across all program types. These efforts will align with its fiscal priorities and equity goals to create a more seamless, responsive, and sustainable early childhood system for Colorado families and providers.
For the full report, visit cdec.colorado.gov/cdec-independent-evaluation.
CDEC Executive Director Dr. Lisa Roy Joins Educare National Advisory Council
We are incredibly proud to announce that CDEC Executive Director Dr. Lisa Roy will serve on the inaugural Educare Network National Advisory Council!
Dr. Roy brings her deep expertise in building equitable, high-quality early learning systems to this important national effort.
The new Advisory Council is designed to strengthen connections between research, practice, and policy, helping early learning systems across the entire country better support children and families from birth to age five.
Dr. Roy’s involvement ensures that Colorado's innovative work in early childhood education will help drive national strategy and impact.
Learn more about this exciting development: National Educare Network Expands Leadership to Drive Innovation and Impact Across Early Childhood Research, Policy, and Practice
Colorado Welcomes California for 2025 Early Learning Tour
 Governor Jared Polis and Dr. Lisa Roy stand outdoors talking to members of the visiting California delegation during the early learning tour.
Colorado recently hosted a significant visit, welcoming early learning leaders from California for the 2025 Early Learning Tour!
CDEC Executive Director Dr. Lisa Roy joined the guests to showcase Colorado’s comprehensive approach to supporting children and families from birth to age five. The visit was a fantastic opportunity to:
- Explore innovative practices.
- Share expertise across state lines.
- Build new connections for future collaboration.
 A group of Colorado and California early learning leaders, stand outside the Jamaica Child Development Center for a group photo.
Tour Highlights
The week-long tour featured visits to several key sites, providing a deep look into Colorado's diverse early childhood landscape:
- Clayton Early Learning
- Jamaica Child Development Center
- Gary Community Center
- United Way’s Tamara M. Sparks Early Learning Center
The delegation was also welcomed to the Governor’s Residence for a special gathering hosted by Governor Jared Polis.
We are deeply grateful to Governor Polis for his continued leadership in prioritizing early childhood in Colorado, and to all the dedicated teachers, program directors, and community partners who generously shared their work.
This successful week reaffirmed the strength and dedication of Colorado’s early childhood community and the shared commitment to ensuring every child has the best start in life.
Investing in the Early Childhood Workforce: A Business and Community Priority
The early childhood workforce is undeniably essential to both Colorado’s families and economy. However, the reality for many dedicated educators involves low wages, limited benefits, and financial stress, making long-term commitment to the field challenging.
Addressing these significant workforce challenges requires strong partnerships and innovative solutions.
 A diverse group of business, community, and early childhood leaders, including Dr. Lisa Roy (far right, speaking) and Senator John Hickenlooper (far left), participate in a roundtable discussion in a conference room with large windows overlooking a city skyline.
Leading the Discussion
CDEC Executive Director Dr. Lisa Roy recently joined Senator John Hickenlooper for a critical roundtable discussion. The event brought together early childhood partners and leaders from various sectors—including:
- Business
- Housing
- Economic Development
- Philanthropy
Why Investment Matters
The consensus is clear: strengthening compensation, benefits, and professional support for educators is not just a matter of fairness—it is a strategic economic necessity. These investments are crucial for:
- Building a Stable Workforce: Reducing turnover and ensuring reliable care.
- Improving Child Care Quality: Supporting highly qualified professionals who can deliver excellent programs.
- Ensuring Strong Foundations: Guaranteeing that Colorado's youngest learners (birth to age five) receive the high-quality start they need.
By fostering innovation and strong partnerships, Colorado has the potential to lead the way in child care access and affordability, ultimately building a cohesive, sustainable early childhood system that supports professionals, strengthens families, and benefits communities statewide.
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 Four children bundled in winter gear smiling with arms outstretched in the snow. Overlay text: CDEC POLICY & LEGISLATION.
CDEC Policy & Legislation
Upcoming Public Rulemaking Meetings
The Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) will convene three public meetings in December with our rulemaking advisory bodies, and the Executive Director to continue collaborative discussions on early childhood rulemaking and policy priorities. Only one (1) set of rules will be considered for promulgation this month, the Rules Regulating Child Care Centers, which includes the new Outdoor Nature-Based Preschool Program (ONB) rules.
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RAC County Subcommittee Meeting (ZOOM Link)
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Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025
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Time: 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
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Topic(s):
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Rules Advisory Council (RAC) Meeting (ZOOM Link)
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Date: Thursday, December 11, 2025
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Time: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
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Topic(s):
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Public Rulemaking Hearing (ZOOM Link)
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Date: Thursday, December 18, 2025
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Time: 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Rulemaking Discussion Hearing:
Presentation, discussion, and promulgation of the Division of Early Learning, Licensing, and Administration’s (DELLA) proposed revisions to the Rules Regulating Child Care Centers. These revisions would establish a new ONB license type to implement Colorado Senate Bill 24-078; amend provisions for Small Child Care Centers to allow the care of infants and toddlers; and conduct a technical cleanup to enhance clarity and consistency throughout the rules.
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.
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