Vision
Promoting preschool quality everywhere, while targeting new services in the communities where they are needed most.

Background
National studies consistently demonstrate that high quality preschool experiences result in significant educational and social benefits for children. Because the Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) views preschool as a vital experience for children and families, the Orange County Preschool Planning Collaborative was convened.  From February to October, 2007, over 200 individuals, including educators, public agency representatives, child care providers, parents, and other early childhood education stakeholders, met to develop a seven-year comprehensive plan for preschool education in Orange County.

The collaborative has built a blueprint for the next seven years that will improve the overall level of quality preschool programs and will also increase access to high-quality preschool experiences for the children who have limited prospects of access today.
 
Goals of the Collaborative
Increase quality of preschool programs
Increase access to preschool for families with the greatest need
Improve coordination between preschool and K-12 systems
Maximize existing resources

The collaborative is committed to ensuring that the quest for a quality education for every child, beginning with preschool, starts in 2008. With committed partners, together we will ensure Orange County's young children have the opportunity to learn and thrive in quality preschool programs.

Thank you to all of the Orange County Preschool Planning Collaborative partners who attended meetings and provided expertise and ideas for the development of the plan.