Department of Early Education and Care moves its offices

Date: 1/8/2014

SPRINGFIELD – The Department of Early Education and Care’s Western Massachusetts regional office has relocated to 1441 Main St., suite 230. The office is located in the same downtown area as previously, and will continue to serve the towns and cities in the Hampshire, Franklin, Berkshire and Hampden counties. The new facility provides an updated environment with additional space for enhanced on-site services.

“The Department of Early Education and Care is thrilled to continue its Western Massachusetts headquarters’ presence in the city of Springfield,” Early Education and Care Commissioner Tom Weber said.

“Expanding access to high-quality early education and care across the Commonwealth – creating opportunity for children and families while strengthening Massachusetts’ economic security – is a top priority of the Patrick Administration. Western Massachusetts is home to a strong network of early education and care providers and advocates, and the department is pleased to be part of this great community,” he continued.

The new office location, which has a five-year lease term, includes conference room space for up to 50 people that will be available to area organizations for community meetings or other services, which benefit the early education and care field, local children and their families.

The United Way of Pioneer Valley and the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County are located in the same building.

The office will be open Monday through Friday from 8:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking is available in a municipal lot on Dwight Street.

The department has five regional offices across the state that offer services for Massachusetts children and families, including licensing and monitoring early education and care and out of school time programs, technical assistance for individuals or programs seeking new licensure or approval, complaint investigation, educator professional development, and family and community engagement.

To learn more, visit www.mass.gov/edu/birth-grade-12/early-education-and-care/eec-offices-and-locations.html.