Harris to head Division of Early Care and Education
The Capital Times
June 22, 2008

Dan Harris has been named administrator of the Division of Early Care and Education in the state's new Department of Children and Families, effective July 1 when the new department launches operations.

"Dan believes strongly in the importance of early care and education in the lives of children," said Secretary Reggie Bicha, leader of the new department, who announced the appointment in a written statement.

Harris comes to Wisconsin from the New Mexico Department of Children, Youth and Families, where he was responsible for a quality rating system, a child care assistance program, child care licensing, child care resource and referral, and other programs. He also has worked in a range of state and federal programs in Illinois .

Harris has a master's degree in public policy from the University of Chicago .
The new department will combine services for children and families now provided by the Department of Health and Family Services and the Department of Workforce Development, with the intent of streamlining and improving services.