In this episode of the ROE #17 POD, we welcome Melissa Breeden, Regional Council Manager for Birth to Five Illinois: Region 17. We delve into the organization's critical work of redesigning the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) system. Melissa explains the mission to center the family experience and how the local Region 17 Council translates statewide goals into actionable plans. Listen in to learn about their crucial collaboration with local childcare facilities and K-12 schools, the service gaps they are actively addressing, and how their efforts are helping to build a stronger educational foundation for the region's youngest learners.

https://www.birthtofiveil.com/region17

https://idec.illinois.gov/