Oregon's Professional Standards and Competencies (ORPSC) for Early Childhood Educators

The Early Learning System Initiative (ELSI) is supporting the integration of the NAEYC Competencies into the Oregon early learning system, in a collaborative partnership with the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC), the Research Institute (TRI), and Oregon Center for Career Development (OCCD).

Oregon’s Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) is adopting Oregon Professional Standards and Competencies for Early Childhood Educators to support a more connected, competency-based professional learning system across the state.

Professional Standards and Competencies for Early Childhood Educators describe what early childhood educators know and are able to do in practice. Competencies are developed over time through education, training, and on-the-job experience. They are strengthened through supports such as coaching, reflection, and ongoing learning. Competency-based learning goes beyond attending training, it means applying knowledge in real-world settings and growing practice over time.

These standards and competencies were updated through a national effort beginning in 2017, gathering broad feedback from educators and partners. Released in 2020, the final Professional Standards and Competencies for Early Childhood Educators reflect current research and emphasize child and family well being, dual language learning, and appropriate technology use.

To learn more about how they were created visit Power to the Profession. Supporting guidance, examples, and resources have been developed to reflect Oregon-specific context. Learn about Oregon-specific materials.

For full descriptions of each standard and competency, please visit NAEYC’s official position statement.