On January 28, 2021, Governor Mike Parson and the Departments of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Health and Senior Services, and Social Services announced nearly all early childhood programs across state government will be consolidated in a single Office of Childhood. Currently, each state agency provides various services for children and families. This transition to one office will allow early childhood work across state government to become more streamlined and effective.
This office will ensure children and families across the state have better access to more consistent, quality programs and services. DESE will house the new office, which will provide a comprehensive approach to early childhood care and education, including all programs related to child care, home visiting, early learning, and early intervention.
Ensuring Missouri’s children are safe, healthy and successful learners is the cornerstone of this initiative.
