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Early Learning

In 2012, California introduced transitional kindergarten, a new grade for older 4-year-olds. The state has begun restoring preschool and child care slots eliminated during the recession, and investing more in full-day programs. California has not adopted universal preschool for 4-year-olds as urged by President Barack Obama and implemented in some states, but is making progress to reaching that goal promoted by many advocates. There is a growing emphasis on the 0-3 years, as well as on developing systems on how to measure the quality of early education programs.
June 20, 2018

California falls short in underwriting meals for state's youngest children

Continued lack of state investment in Child and Adult Care Food Program means fewer child care providers can offer free meals.

Franny Wong
June 14, 2018

California budget includes increase for infant and toddler care but not enough to meet demand

The budget will fund the creation of 13,407 new child care slots for low-income families.

Ashley Hopkinson
June 12, 2018

Many teachers favor a more integrated early education system, national survey finds

A national survey reveals that many teachers support a unified preschool and K-3 system and also believe higher wages and professional preparation are key to keeping teachers in the classroom.

Ashley Hopkinson
June 9, 2018

Legislative leaders in Sacramento strike deal with Gov. Brown on education funding in his last budget

The compromise deal would create a new online community college, raise funding for the UC and CSU, and reform how community colleges are funded. The deal also adds $400 million to LCFF.

Mikhail Zinshteyn and Larry Gordon
June 6, 2018

From cradle to career: Newsom's vision for education reform in California

Newsom outlined in detail what education reforms he would promote if elected governor in response to an EdSource questionnaire submitted to all leading gubernatorial candidates last month.

EdSource Staff
May 15, 2018

More states expanding preschool programs but quality still lags

In a national report that measures access, quality and investment in public preschool programs, California ranks high for the number of 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds enrolled in programs, but low on quality standards.

Ashley Hopkinson
May 9, 2018

Gubernatorial debate includes pledges for universal preschool from Democrats

In contrast, the Republican candidates oppose providing state-subsidized preschool for all California 4-year-olds.

Nico Savidge
May 2, 2018

Educators face new challenges in 'superdiverse' classrooms where multiple languages are spoken

Researchers focused on classrooms where more than five languages are spoken.

Ashley Hopkinson
April 18, 2018

California to get huge boost in child care funds from federal budget

There will be nearly a $2.4 billion increase in funding for the Child Care and Development Block Grant program.

Louis Freedberg
April 12, 2018

Campaign underway in California to elect a 'children's governor'

The Silicon Valley Community Foundation-initiated campaign hopes the next governor will focus on children beginning at birth, and implement child-friendly programs within the first 100 days.

Louis Freedberg
April 5, 2018

Unlike California, many states have umbrella agency for early childhood programs

California could learn from the experience of other states that have established separate departments or divisions to oversee early childhood programs.

Louis Freedberg
April 4, 2018

Facing unprepared kindergartners, a rural school district restores preschool for all

This school year the Lindsay Unified School District, in a small farming community in Tulare County, implemented universal preschool, meaning every child from birth to 4 years old, regardless of family income, can attend a program in the district for free.

Ashley Hopkinson
March 26, 2018

Great teachers make every student feel included

A public school teacher’s job is to provide a safe, supportive learning environment for all students.

Jillayne Antoon
March 25, 2018

Measures to fund child care reach the ballot in two California counties

New taxes would subsidize child care for low- and middle-income families.

Carolyn Jones
March 22, 2018

With increased focus on students' social and emotional skills, teachers turn to class pets to help lead the way

In some schools, class pets do more than help children learn about animals. They are also being integrated into teachers' efforts to help young students learn social and emotional skills, such as self-awareness, responsibility and empathy.

Ashley Hopkinson