Early Childhood Comprehensive System (ECCS)
The Montana Early Childhood Comprehensive System is the synchronization and improved collaboration of all existing pertinent services at the state and local level for children aged 0-5 and their families, so that whatever service provider a child accesses, all other needed services are identified and the child and their family are guided to that service.
The ECCS is funded through a federal grant. This grant involves a planning process that will build on existing information and infrastructure in Montana and a strategic plan to support a coordinated system of services for young children and their families in these areas:
- Medical Homes
- Mental Health and Social Emotional Development
- Early Care and Education
- Parent Education
- Family Support
Vision
- Our future is healthy young children, families and communities.
Or
- Montana's future relies upon healthy children, families and communities.
The mission of Montana's Early Childhood Comprehensive System Initiative is to develop a system that includes an array of quality services creating opportunities for young children to achieve full potential within their families and communities.
Guiding Principles- All families can benefit from education and support
- All parents are in the process of developing their skills and abilities as parents.
- A diverse approach to service delivery must be innovative, empowering and inclusive.
- Every child deserves to have quality early childhood experiences.
- Accessible and appropriate health care is a crucial component of an ECC System.
- An ECCS must have poverty reduction, economic development and job skill s training as core components.
- The private sector must be included as and encouraged to become a key partner in ECCS development.
For more information, please contact Jamie Palagi at (406) 444-1828 or by e-mail at jpalagi@mt.gov
