Superintendent Jerry Wartgow announced today the selection of Cheryl M. Caldwell as the new Director of the Department of Early Education. The recommendation is expected to go to the Board of Education for formal approval in December.

Ms. Caldwell served most recently as Vice-President of the Clayton Foundation, which is focused on addressing the educational needs of young children. She brings to the district a background in public education as well as extensive experience with early childhood education at both the local and state level.

Prior to Clayton, Ms. Caldwell served as Executive Director of Sewall Child Development Center. Her public school experience includes positions in Denver as an elementary school principal, assistant to the superintendent, and as director of student services.

The Department of Early Childhood provides support to early childhood education and kindergarten staff in the schools, and in the programs sponsored by community agencies that receive Colorado Preschool Program dollars. The department also represents the district with numerous community and private funding agencies involved with the education of young children.