Early Childhood Education

The Center for Improving the Readiness of Children for Learning and Education (CIRCLE)

C.I.R.C.L.E. at the University of Texas-Houston Health Science Center (UTHHSC) conducts several research projects, community programs and training activities with the goal of ensuring sound learning environments for children in their early years. Through these programs, a large database on early childhood development has been created- including evaluations on child development from infancy through elementary school years.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg District Pre-Kindergarten Program, Bright Beginnings, is designed to provide a child-centered, literacy-focused learning environment to ensure that all children in Mecklenburg County enter kindergarten ready to learn. The Bright Beginnings Pre-K Program is an award-winning full-day, literacy-based initiative for 4-year-olds who have identified educational needs. The program is the cornerstone of the district's goal to have 85% of third-grade students reading at or above grade level. End-of-grade test scores in literacy and math show significant and sustained benefits from participation in the program.

Early Reading First

Authorized through the No Child Left Behind Act, Early Reading First is a competitive grant program designed to help districts transform existing early education programs into centers of excellence that provide high-quality, early education to young children, especially those from low-income families. The overall purpose of the Early Reading First Program is to prepare young children to enter kindergarten with the necessary language, cognitive, and early reading skills to prevent reading difficulties and ensure school success.

Good Start, Grow Smart

President Bush believes that all children must begin school with an equal chance at achievement so that no child is left behind. The Bush Administration has proposed a three-pronged early childhood initiative Good Start, Grow Smart to help States and local communities strengthen early learning for young children. This will ensure that young children are equipped with the skills they will need to start school ready to learn.

Reading and Language Arts

This Department of Education site offers a variety of on-line resources on early reading, including: parent guides, national reports, research and presentations. The site also includes information about the Department's current reading initiatives and grant programs.

Head Start, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Head Start is a comprehensive child development program, serving children from birth to age 5, pregnant women, and their families. Since 1965, Head Start has delivered comprehensive and high quality services designed to increase overall school readiness and foster the healthy development of young children from low-income families. In addition, Head Start grantee and delegate agencies provide a range of individualized services in the areas of education and early childhood development; medical, dental, and mental health; nutrition; and parent involvement.

National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)

The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) is the nation's largest and most influential organization of early childhood educators and others dedicated to improving the quality of programs for children from birth through third grade. Founded in 1926, NAEYC's 100,000 members and national network of 450 local, state, and regional affiliates work to improve professional practice and working conditions in early childhood education and build public support for high quality early childhood programs.

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