(2) The division shall function under the direction and control of the Early Learning Council with the Early Learning System Director serving as the administrative officer. [2013 c.624 §1; 2015 c.774 §§15,45]
Note: The amendments to 326.430 by section 11, chapter 631, Oregon Laws 2021, become operative January 1, 2023. See section 64, chapter 631, Oregon Laws 2021. The text that is operative on and after January 1, 2023, is set forth for the user’s convenience.
(1) The Department of Early Learning and Care is established.
(2) The purposes of the department are to:
(a) Ensure that every child in this state is given the best opportunity to succeed in school, work and life by providing:
(A) High-quality early childhood education programs for children from birth through five years of age and child care for children from birth through 12 years of age; and
(B) Care for children who have a physical or developmental disability or who require other specialized care from birth through 17 years of age;
(b) Administer laws and perform functions related to early childhood to ensure that children enter school ready to learn and families are healthy, stable and attached; and
(c) Administer programs in a manner that supports parents’ and providers’ needs and considers the economic security and well-being of parents and providers.
(3) The department shall function under and be coordinated by the Early Learning Council.
(4) The Early Learning System Director appointed under ORS 326.432 shall serve as the administrative officer of the department.