History

In 1991, the US Congress established a federal Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG). Each state was allocated funds to assist low-income families with child care and development services. In California Assembly Bill (AB) 2141 was passed, providing suggested structure for Local Child Care and Development Planning Councils.

In 1997, AB 1542 was passed establishing welfare reform legislation (CalWORKS) revising the membership and responsibilities of local planning councils.

History of Local Planning Councils

Local decision-making for child care and development programs began in 1991 with the passage of AB 2141 and the inception of the Federal Child Care and Development Block Grant. The original intent of local child care planning councils had been to improve child care and delivery by encouraging local government involvement for joint planning and coordination among state and federal agencies. In 1997 AB 1542 mandated planning councils in each county, requiring the involvement of both the Board of Supervisors and the County Office of Education. Councils were given more responsibilities and mandates as part of the legislation creating California’s response to federal welfare reform. Since then, the El Dorado County Early Care and Education Planning Council has become an important part of the local infrastructure, developing comprehensive, community based strategies to serve children and families.

Mission Statement

The Early Care and Education Planning Council of El Dorado County is a public-private partnership of business, education, child care providers and consumers, community and governments. The mission is to serve as the focal point for the planning and development of accessible, affordable, quality child care and development programs for children and families in El Dorado County.

Vision

Through community investment, the Early Care and Education Planning Council will address the economic, educational and societal values of child care and development programs in the County.

Membership

AB 1542 encourages diverse representation on local Early Care and Education Planning Councils while maintaining a balance of different interests. Membership is grouped into the following categories:

• 20% child care consumers
• 20% child care providers
• 20% community representatives
• 20% public agency representatives
• 20% discretionary appointments made by the County Board of Supervisors and the Superintendent of Schools