October 29, 2009
The Future of Early Education Systems in California (PreK-3rd)
Brad Strong, Director of Education, Children Now
Lisa Guernsey, Director, Early Education Initiative, New America Foundation
Loretta Burns, Director, Santa Clara County Partnership for School Readiness
California’s education system continues to struggle to close persistent achievement gaps that often exist at school entry, and the state’s dire fiscal situation certainly doesn’t help. But real progress is possible, even now, as new strategies to build seamless early learning systems are being developed and supported through federal efforts. Presenters will discuss the critical components of PreK-3rd systems, provide specific examples of how these systems are working locally to improve school readiness in California, and offer up new opportunities for statewide leadership that are outlined in a New America Foundation report on California’s early education system.