New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department

The New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department is a government organization based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The department employs 22 people and generates an estimated $100 million in annual revenue. Originally established in 2019 by Governor Lujan Grisham and the New Mexico Legislature, the department officially commenced operations on July 1, 2020. The New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department is dedicated to creating a comprehensive and equitable system of early childhood services throughout the state. Their focus encompasses a range of programs from prenatal care to age five, ensuring accessibility for families across New Mexico. This work is guided by the Birth-Five Needs Assessment and the Native American Perspectives report, which incorporate insights from thousands of New Mexican residents. In addition to early childhood programs, the department also oversees child care, food, and nutrition programs that support older children and families. The department's vision is for all New Mexico families and young children to flourish. Their mission centers on optimizing the health, development, education, and overall well-being of babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. They strive to achieve this through a family-centered, equitable, and community-based system of high-quality prenatal and early childhood programs and services. For more information about the New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department, visit their website at nmececd.org.