DOVER— Governor Matt Meyer has signed Senate Bill 153, modernizing the Interagency Resource Management Committee (IRMC) and names Lt. Governor Kyle Evans Gay, a champion for a bolder early childhood education system, as Chair. This committee, made up of Cabinet Secretaries and senior leadership from state agencies, is responsible for establishing a comprehensive and coordinated early childhood education system in the First State.

“To best support our youngest Delawareans and their working families, we must have a strong statewide network of early childhood education resources. The IRMC has a critical role in improving that network, breaking down the barriers that prevent families from accessing and affording quality early education. As the new Chair, I look forward to charting a renewed vision for the IRMC, leveraging collaboration and partnership across all stakeholders to improve the early childhood education system holistically — working to maintain and improve quality programming, grow the workforce, reduce costs of care, and prioritizing equity to meet the diverse needs of Delaware’s youngest minds,” stated Lt. Governor Kyle Evans Gay.

Historically, the IRMC has met quarterly and issued an annual report highlighting the efforts of the Early Learning team in the Department of Education and the Delaware Early Childhood Council (DECC). With SB 153, the IRMC will be able to identify new opportunities for cross agency collaboration, including offering more direction to the DECC, to strengthen the early childcare system and improve outcomes for Delaware families.

“Kyle has been a dedicated champion for early childhood education well before she was elected to public office. She’s carried that passion with her as a State Senator and as our Lieutenant Governor,” said Sen. Tizzy Lockman. “The Interagency Resource Management Committee plays a critical role in setting the agenda for early education policy, and I look forward to the perspective and enthusiasm that Lt. Governor Gay will bring to the group as Chairperson.”

Additionally, the bill adds members of the General Assembly as non-voting members to foster streamlined communication between the executive branch agencies, the legislature, and early education partners.

“When we talk about bringing up the next generation of leaders, we must embrace a holistic approach. Every voice matters, and every agency plays a role in supporting our youngest and most vulnerable citizens,” said Rep. Kam Smith. “By appointing Lt. Governor Kyle Evans Gay to lead the Interagency Resource Management Committee (IRMC), we are putting someone with a passion to lift up children and families at the helm of this important work. Her leadership will help unify our efforts…giving every child a strong, fair start in life.”

Lt. Governor Gay and her office will manage the staffing of the IRMC, ensuring the effectiveness of the committee. This revitalization of the IRMC is welcomed by both early education advocates and legislators, who offered unanimous and bipartisan support of SB 153.

“Strengthening interagency governance will make it easier for families to access the programs, services, and funding that support their children. By passing SB 153, the General Assembly continues to demonstrate its commitment to families and early childhood educators. The IRMC’s leadership and vision is critical to the success of Delaware’s early childhood plan, Strengthening Early Success,” Madeleine Bayard, Chair, Delaware Early Childhood Council.

Lt. Governor Gay is ready to get to work, ensuring state resources are being used effectively and well for Delaware’s families.

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Media Contact: Alexis Wrease, alexis.wrease@delaware.gov

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