DC Early Learning Collaborative
Vision, Mission & Theory of Change
VISION
A city where every child from birth to age 5 has equitable access to high-quality early education and care.
MISSION
To unite and mobilize diverse stakeholders to advance equitable, high-quality early learning experiences for every child in Washington, DC.
THEORY OF CHANGE
If DCELC strengthens awareness, action, and education among diverse stakeholders, then systemic inequities will be diminished, the educator workforce will be adequately supported, and high-quality ECE will be recognized and funded as a public good.
Who We Are
Our Role in Advancing Early Childhood Education
The DC Early Learning Collaborative (DCELC) stands at the forefront of advancing equitable access to high-quality early childhood education (ECE) across Washington, DC. As a trusted convener of educators, policymakers, and community leaders, DCELC brings together diverse voices to strengthen the city’s early learning system and champion policies that uplift children, families, and the workforce that serves them.
A Decade of Leadership and Advocacy
Over the past decade, under the leadership of Carrie Thornhill, Sia Barbara Kamara, Dr. Beverly Jackson, and the late Maurice R. Sykes, DCELC has built powerful connections rooted in advocacy, collaboration, and community-driven leadership, continuing the legacy of the historic Pre-K for All DC movement that transformed early education in the District. Guided by data, lived experience, and equity-centered practices, DCELC’s work ensures that the early years of a child’s life are not seen as a privilege but as a universal right supported by strong systems and sustained investment.
Strategic Vision for 2026–2029
Our 2026–2029 strategic plan builds on this foundation by deepening DCELC’s commitment to positioning early childhood education as a public good, an essential pillar of the District’s educational progress, workforce stability, and long-term economic health. Through this plan, DCELC will strengthen its internal capacity, expand professional development pathways for Directors or programs and educators, and lead coordinated advocacy efforts that secure equitable funding and systemic reform.
Building a Thriving Future for Every Child
This next phase of growth is intentional and forward-looking, emphasizing collaboration, financial sustainability, and community mobilization to ensure that every child, regardless of zip code, has the opportunity to thrive. By aligning our strategic priorities with measurable goals and expanding our partnerships, DCELC will continue shaping the narrative that investing in early learning is not only a moral imperative but a strategic investment in the future of Washington, DC.
Organizational Overview
A Cross-Sector Coalition for Early Learning
The DC Early Learning Collaborative (DCELC) is a powerful cross-sector coalition of educators, advocates, community-based organizations, and policymakers united by a shared commitment to strengthening the District’s early learning system. As the successor to Pre-K for All DC, which led the passage of the landmark Pre-K Expansion and Enhancement Act of 2008, legislation that became a national model, DCELC continues to serve as a driving force for innovation, collaboration, and equity in early education. Through collective action and strong partnerships, DCELC bridges the gap between policy and practice, ensuring that the needs of children, families, and early educators remain at the forefront of decision-making across Washington, DC.
Inclusive Governance and Representation
DCELC’s governance structure reflects the strength of its coalition and the diversity of the field it represents. Its 15-member board includes leaders from key associations such as the DC Association for the Education of Young Children, the DC Family Child Care Association, the DC Head Start Association, the Washington Association of Child Care Centers, DC Head Start, and the Multicultural Spanish Speaking Providers Association. This broad representation ensures that voices from every corner of the early childhood ecosystem, educators, families, advocates, and program leaders, inform the organization’s vision, priorities, and policy agenda. Through inclusive leadership and strategic collaboration, DCELC embodies the collective power of a community working together to advance excellence and equity in early learning.
“When you do the right thing for children, you believe in the inherent value of every child, regardless of background.”
— Maurice R. Sykes
Get in Touch
Have questions or need more information? We’re here to help! Feel free to reach out with any inquiries, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
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