December 6, 2024
The Carole Robertson Center for Learning celebrates the recent appointment of Dr. Teresa Ramos as the inaugural Secretary of the Illinois Department of Early Childhood. This marks an exciting and pivotal milestone for early childhood education and care in Illinois.
Secretary Ramos brings a wealth of expertise and a demonstrated commitment to supporting young children and families. Her leadership arrives at a critical moment when investing in a child’s earliest years is more important than ever.
“We are confident that Secretary Ramos, with her proven track record of championing policies and programs that uplift communities, will guide Illinois toward a brighter future for our youngest learners,” said Bela Moté, President & CEO of the Carole Robertson Center and Chair of the Early Childhood and Care Transition Advisory Committee. “From fostering access to high-quality early learning to addressing critical family supports, we share the vision for a more equitable, inclusive, and effective system that meets the needs of all children—one that is simpler, fairer, and better.”
The Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC) was created to streamline early childhood programs and consolidate the Child Care Assistance Program; Early Intervention; home visiting services; infant, toddler and preschool programs; and child care licensing under one unified agency. Currently, these programs are administered by four entities, which is burdensome to both families and providers. IDEC will begin operating in July 2026.
The Carole Robertson Center looks forward to continued collaboration with the Illinois Department of Early Childhood. Together, we can work toward creating a state where every child is nurtured, empowered, and given the tools to thrive. We look forward to the work ahead.
