Colorado Department of Early Childhood

Early Childhood Champion Spotlight: Deborah Young

For more than four decades, Deborah Young has helped strengthen early childhood programs, support families, and mentor educators in Colorado and around the world.

Through her work, more than 300 immigrant and refugee community members have entered the early childhood workforce, and countless families have gained access to resources, support, and opportunity.

"She does not simply support students; she walks alongside them, empowering them to find their voice and become leaders." — Former student and colleague

👉 Read the full spotlight: https://ow.ly/j55050Z8bP3

Sena Harjo, PhD, our Tribal Liaison & Community Engagement Lead, was honored to join Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera, Southern Ute Tribal Chairman Marvin Pinnecoose, Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Secretary Marilynn House, CCIA At-Large Commissioner Lucille Echohawk, former Chairman Manuel Heart, and key partners in Durango yesterday.

Together, we gathered to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs (CCIA).

At CDEC, we are deeply grateful for our relationships with the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. Strong tribal partnerships ensure that every child and family across Colorado has the support they need to thrive.

Thank you, CCIA, for 50 years of dedicated advocacy, collaboration, and leadership! ✨

Read the press release: https://governorsoffice.colorado.gov/governor/news/lt-governor-primavera-celebrates-50th-anniversary-colorado-commission-indian-affairs

This Caribbean American Heritage Month, we’re recognizing the Caribbean families, early childhood professionals, and community members whose cultures, traditions, and perspectives enrich Colorado’s youngest learners.

From sharing language and family traditions to supporting children’s growth in homes, classrooms, and communities across the state, Caribbean Americans help create strong foundations for Colorado’s future.

Has an early childhood program, educator, or support service helped your child thrive? Or do you have a story about how your culture and experiences have shaped your family’s early childhood journey in Colorado?

We’d love to hear it.

Share your story: https://bit.ly/CDECStories

Together, we can celebrate the diverse experiences that help Colorado’s children learn, grow, and belong.

Bold Together by Choice invites educators, families, and community partners to move from ideas into action. 💙

Join us for the Community Forum For All Virtual Conference on June 30, 2026, for a day centered on connection, care, and the everyday choices that shape how children and families experience early childhood spaces.

Participants will:
✨ Reflect and learn alongside others
✨ Share experiences and ideas
✨ Identify practical steps they can take in their own settings
✨ Leave with actionable strategies and a clear path forward

📍 Virtual (Zoom platform)
📅 June 30, 2026
⏰ 8:30 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.
💻 Open to the public and free to attend

Register here: https://ow.ly/ajwZ50Z4QaM

Learn more about the event: https://sites.google.com/state.co.us/2026-cdec-for-all-forum/home?authuser=0

Today, Governor Polis has officially signed SB26-020: Child Care Provider Licensing & Quality into law! Our Executive Director, Dr. Lisa Roy, joined the Governor and early childhood partners to celebrate this major milestone.

Sponsored by Senators Scott Bright and Matt Ball, and Representatives Emily Sirota and Ryan Gonzalez, this bill builds on Colorado’s success in and commitment to early childhood by:

• Cutting Red Tape: Streamlining the licensing process to eliminate administrative delays.
• Supporting Providers: Giving our dedicated workforce the tools and flexibility they need to thrive.
• Lowering Costs: Expanding access and reducing barriers to save families money.

Thank you to the bill sponsors and our community for working together to ensure all Colorado kids receive high-quality care!

We’re continuing to celebrate the incredible Early Childhood Champions making a difference for children and families across Colorado.

From providers and educators to home visitors, family advocates, health professionals, and community leaders, these champions reflect the care, compassion, and commitment that strengthen communities every day.

We’re now 85% of the way to our goal of recognizing 150 Early Childhood Champions, and nominations continue to come in from across the state.

👉 Explore the growing list of champions:
https://cdec.colorado.gov/150/250-celebrating-early-childhood-champions

Know someone making a difference in early childhood?
👉 Submit a nomination: bit.ly/EC-Champ

Thank you to everyone who has nominated, shared, and celebrated these champions with us.

Lions, tigers and savings, oh my! A day of family fun doesn't have to stretch your budget. If you bring your EBT card, admission to the Pueblo Zoo is just $5 per person for up to 4 people!

We’re thrilled to announce that over 31,000 early childhood professionals now hold an active Early Childhood Professional Credential (ECPC). That's 72% of our active workforce! 🎉

This milestone reflects Colorado’s commitment to building a strong, skilled, and supported workforce that ensures children across our state can learn, grow, and succeed. As ECPC Manager Brenda Maes noted, "31,000 active credential holders is not just a number— it affirms the dedication of Colorado’s early childhood professionals and our state’s strategic investment in systems that support our families and children."

Read the full press: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/CODEC/bulletins/41886a7

Learn more about the ECPC and what this means for Colorado kids: https://www.coloradoshinespdis.com/s/about-the-ecpc

Young children learn social-emotional skills over time through caring relationships, guidance, and everyday interactions. When adults model kindness, help children express emotions, and create safe environments, children build skills that support them for life. 🌱

Learn more about child development, mental health, and family resources:
EarlyChildhoodMentalHealthCO.org
RaisingColoradoKids.com