Office of the Lt. Governor

Early Childhood Councils Advisory Team (ECCAT)

The Office of Lt. Governor Barbara O'Brien in collaboration with the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS), as legislated by House Bill 07-1062, convened the first Colorado Early Childhood Councils Advisory Team (ECCAT) in January 2008.  With support and collaboration from the Departments of Human Services, Education, and Public Health and Environment, the ECCAT members are charged with advising and supporting local Early Childhood (EC) Councils in their mission of increasing and sustaining quality early childhood services for children and families in Colorado's communities.

The majority of ECCAT members reflect the geographic and cultural diversity of local EC Councils.  Other members, representing state and local organizations, reflect the four Smart Start Colorado domains (Early Care & Education, Health, Mental Health, and Family Support).

ECCAT's first meeting was held on January 7-8, 2008 at The Curtis Hotel.  It was a great start to establishing a strong, well-functioning team.

Highlights from the first ECCAT meeting include:

• Convening a diverse group of early childhood leaders from across the state, with strong representation from local Early Childhood Councils
• Engaging the Advisory Team in collaborative team-building experiences
• Discussing the legislative duties for the team
• Determining decision-making processes through collaborative deliberations

For more information about ECCAT, please contact:

Jeanine Coleman

Early Childhood Specialist

Office of Lt. Governor Barbara O'Brien

jeanine.coleman@state.co.us

303-866-5603 (office)

303-866-8559 (cell)