Topic

Early Learning

Quality early care and education are critical to prepare California children for school and their lives in general. But a large percentage of children do not have access to high quality early childhood education programs. The state restored a large share of the preschool and child care slots eliminated during the recession, and has invested more in full-day programs. Early childhood advocates, parents, and providers are eagerly awaiting implementation of a series of reforms proposed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has made early education a central policy pillar of his administration. He has promised universal access to all low-income 4 year olds by the end of his first term, along with full-kindergarten. He is also promising major expansion of prenatal services, and services for children beginning at birth such as family home visits.

January 15, 2020

California Voices: Education leaders speak out on Gov. Newsom's budget proposals

Leaders representing all segments of California's education system share their reactions to the governor’s budget proposals.

EdSource staff

January 13, 2020

In his own words: Gov. Newsom explains his budget proposals on early education

Newsom proposes to fund another 10,000 preschool slots, and pledges to support another 10,000 next year, which he says will result in "universal preschool" for all low income 4 year olds.

By EdSource Staff

January 10, 2020

California governor wants to expand preschool and create new early child development department

By 2021, 20,000 more low-income 4-year-olds could enroll in preschool.

Zaidee Stavely

January 7, 2020

Big promises for little kids: Has California governor delivered on early education?

The early childhood workforce is one area where some experts believe Newsom and the Legislature have fallen short.

Zaidee Stavely

December 17, 2019

As California launches preschool expansion, federal government seeks to limit data

It could soon get harder to find out how many preschoolers were suspended more than once or how many young children had access to preschool.

Zaidee Stavely

December 11, 2019

California parents, preschool teachers learn to teach math through children’s books

A series of activities designed to teach math concepts inspired by children’s books is being piloted as part of a statewide early math initiative.

Zaidee Stavely

December 10, 2019

Education groups renew call for Newsom to put tax for schools to voters in 2020

A coalition organized by Children Now wants the governor to negotiate with Prop. 13 reformers for one tax initiative on the November ballot.

John Fensterwald

November 25, 2019

Parents, other experts named to guide California’s early education reforms

Parents and family child care providers are among the experts who will guide California’s efforts to expand and improve early childhood education in the state.