Sharing Web Resources

On the National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI) website I explored a recent post of a copy of the letter sent to members in the U.S. legislature in support of the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) by the NBCDI CEO, Carol Brunson Day. In the letter she spoke of a “P-20 pipeline” that would support students from preschool to their college years. The NBCDI is also in support of an “early learning fund” where money is set aside to fund early childhood programs and keep them connected to elementary schools.  The position of the NBCDI and the language used to convey their support of the ESEA and the changes that should be implemented is related to our study of equity and excellence. The NBCDI believes that equity in early childhood programs and excellence can be achieved by including teachers in professional development, maintaining pre-k programs in elementary schools, and rewarding states for providing high quality, successful programs.  

I agree with the NBCDI position. In the state of Michigan there are too many different requirements, standards, and inconsistencies as it relates to early childhood programs. If preschools are state funded and in a school there is one set of standards; for example, teachers have to be certified with a ZA endorsement. Independent centers and federal Head Starts are allowed to have “teachers” that have a two year degree (CDA) only.  That discrepancy effects equity because of the type of staffing.

I was unaware of the terminology “P-20 pipeline” and “early learning fund.” The research, early childhood websites, and video presentations that have been presented emphasize the need to advocate for quality education beginning at three years old and collaboration between families and schools for supporting children during their early years.

The NBCDI does not have any outside links and I haven’t received an e-newsletter yet.

http://nbcdi.org/