Community-based solutions to linking early learning and the early grades

As states look for ways to improve student outcomes by creating more “seamless” systems of education
starting at preschool and beyond (P-20), communities have been making it happen.

SPARK (Supporting
Partnerships to Assure Ready Kids) — a five-year initiative funded by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation — is
one good example of what can and is being accomplished at the community level to create continuity
across early childhood and K-12 education. SPARK efforts are designed to assure children are
successful both before and after they enter school. Working with schools, early care and education
providers, families and community partners, SPARK makes a unique contribution to those looking for
policy opportunities to link early learning and the early grades.

Beginning with children at age 3 and following them through grade 3, SPARK provides a continuous set
of services and supports designed to increase school success. What SPARK sites have done to create
connections across local-level systems of learning, stands to impact larger school reform issues and
current state policy discussions regarding what’s needed to create a more holistic system of education
across levels. The initiative includes grantees in eight locations: District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia,
Hawaii, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina and Ohio.

By Mimi Howard

Full Story: http://www.ecs.org/clearinghouse/79/41/7941.pdf