Early Childhood Advisory Committee (ECAC)
In response to the need to improve coordination and collaboration among public and private entities focused on the care and education of young children, the federal government has mandated the creation of state early childhood advisory councils through the Improving Head Start Act of 2007. Through Executive Order #440-2008, Governor John P. de Jongh, Jr. established the Virgin Islands Early Childhood Advisory Committee (ECAC) as a standing committee of the Children and Families Council and pursuant to the Improving Head Start Act of 2007 on June 2, 2008. Membership of the ECAC includes representatives from public and private agencies involved in activities and/or services or with an interest in the welfare of young children and families. The Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands has been designated to coordinate the activities of the ECAC.
The ECAC has established the following:
- Vision: All children in the VI thrive, grow, and learn in safe, nurturing, healthy families and communities; and
- Mission: To develop a high-quality, coordinated, sustainable system of supports and services for young children and their families so all children begin school safe, healthy, and ready to succeed.
In order to accomplish its work and seek greater community engagement, the ECAC has established the following work groups:
- Health and Wellness
- Quality Education
- Professional Development
- Strengthening Families
- Data