Dr. Caroline Ebanks
(202) 245-8320
Caroline.Ebanks@ed.gov

The Early Learning Programs and Policies (Early Learning) topic supports research on the improvement of school-readiness skills (e.g., pre-reading, language, vocabulary, early science and mathematics knowledge, social and behavioral competencies) of prekindergarten children (i.e., 3- to 5-year-olds).

Through this topic, the Institute supports research to reduce the academic disadvantage that many children from low-income families face when they begin formal schooling. This work should be center-based and may address curricula, teacher professional development, or instructional practices; early childhood policy and systems-level initiatives implemented at the federal, state, or local level; and/or assessments of children, teachers, classrooms, and program quality.

The long-term outcome of this research will be an array of tools and strategies (e.g., assessments, instructional approaches, programs, and policies) that have been documented to be effective for improving school readiness skills for prekindergarten children in center-based prekindergarten settings.