Gillespie appointed to Oklahoma Early Childhood Task Force
The two-year initiative will examine how Oklahoma can better coordinate 19 early childhood programs spread across six state agencies.
Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton appointed Sen. Christi Gillespie, R-Broken Arrow, to the newly created Oklahoma Early Childhood Task Force.
The task force will examine the state’s services for children from birth through age five and their families. Oklahoma currently administers 19 early childhood programs through six state agencies, creating a system that can be difficult for families to navigate.
Over the next two years, members will look for ways to reduce administrative overlap, improve accountability, and give families more direct access to services. The task force will use its findings to develop recommendations for a more coordinated early childhood system.
“This is about making sure we are doing everything we can to give Oklahoma children the best possible start,” Gillespie said.
The task force takes effect Nov. 1.
