SALEM, Ore. — Tina Kotek and the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care are recognizing Friday as Child Care Provider Appreciation Day, honoring the thousands of early childhood professionals who support Oregon families and help drive the state’s economy.
Governor Kotek signed an official proclamation recognizing child care providers across Oregon for their work caring for and educating young children.
“Early childhood professionals are essential to our children and our economy and they deserve our thanks,” Kotek said. “Our collective future is shaped by the work of these providers, and I will continue to support them however I can.”
The recognition comes as Oregon continues efforts to improve access to affordable child care and preschool programs statewide. In February, Kotek launched the Early Childhood Care and Learning System Roundtable, an initiative aimed at creating a phased plan to ensure Oregon families can access high-quality and affordable child care services.
DELC Director Alyssa Chatterjee said child care providers play a critical role in children’s development and in supporting working families.
“Child care providers are the caregivers, role models, and early educators who help shape the earliest chapters of a child’s life,” Chatterjee said. “Their work sustains families and strengthens every other sector of Oregon’s economy – yet their contributions are too often overlooked and undervalued.”
She added that investing in child care professionals strengthens both families and the state’s future workforce.
Oregon joins communities nationwide in observing Child Care Provider Appreciation Day, traditionally held on the Friday before Mother’s Day to recognize educators and early care professionals.
Locally, Quality Care Connections launched a video campaign highlighting child care providers and educators throughout the state. Chatterjee participated in the campaign to thank providers for their work and dedication.
The Department of Early Learning and Care said its mission is to support coordinated, culturally appropriate, and family-centered services for children, families, and early learning professionals across Oregon.
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