Secretary Cardona Elevates Kindergarten and the Early Grades
The U.S. Department of Education’s (ED) early learning focus has the potential to help states and school districts rethink kindergarten.
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Big ideas, bold solutions. Explore the latest research, analysis, and policy insights from our experts.
How to Enable Smoother Transitions Into Kindergarten and the Early Grades
state and local leaders could change policies and practices to smooth the transition into (and through) elementary school grades
State Laws Requiring Play-Based Learning
There has been a recent, growing shift toward purposeful play or play-based learning as an instructional strategy in elementary education.
Efforts to Transform Kindergarten for a Strong PreK-3rd Continuum
Some states are going beyond these traditional areas of action, wading into other areas of policy and practice.
How Can Educators Help Children Thrive in Kindergarten and the Early Grades?
Helping to create the conditions for young children to thrive in kindergarten begins by better understanding what is getting in the way.
Deepening Math and Science Learning in Kindergarten and the Early Grades
Clements lamented, “the trouble is… most kindergarten classrooms teach children math they already know. We have to move beyond that.
Teaching in the Ways Kindergartners Learn Best
Research has shown that children learn best when they are engaged in developmentally appropriate experiences and activities: play!
Women Brought Kindergarten to America
Women played a consequential role in advancing kindergarten education in the United States.
Leveraging PDG to Enable Seamless Transitions Across Early Learning
PDG includes a focus on the transition into kindergarten and alignment with the early grades.
Resources for Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five (PDG B-5) Applications
A collection of resources for PDG B-5 grant applications
Access to Free, Full-Day Kindergarten Grows
While most kindergarten-aged children do attend some type of kindergarten, their experience depends on where they live.
The Universal Benefits of Universal Pre-K
Universal per-K could become a real possibility in America, and our Education Policy team is focusing on the challenges and benefits of it.
Fact Sheet: Care Economy Investments in Build Back Better
The proposed Build Back Better legislation represents the first major U.S. attempt to invest in building a care infrastructure.
To Make the Most of Federal ECE Investments, Remember Kindergarten & Early Grades
One area yet to be addressed is what the expansion means for how kindergarten and the early grades must transform.