National League of Cities: Pre-K-to-Third-Grade Alignment Efforts in Five Cities

• In Event: A Cross-Case Analysis of Preschool Through Third Grade (P–3) Alignment: Effective Practices and Policies at State, District, Municipal, and School Levels

Abstract

Purpose
There is a need in the field for good examples of successful alignment of programs for children- particularly models that not only improve quality in the early childhood arena, but also transform practices in elementary schools. The National League of Cities’ (NLC) research focused on identifying promising models that can serve as the foundation for effective strategies to align education and other supports for young children and the specific role of municipal government in implementing these models.

Perspective
A high-quality, well-aligned system for young children that bridges the divide between early childhood programs and K-12 education can help improve outcomes for children, engage and support families, and strengthen local schools and the workforce. Our research provides compelling examples that demonstrate what successful alignment looks like in practice and how municipal led efforts can lead to improved outcomes for young children.

Modes Of Inquiry
Initial qualitative research methods included a literature review on educational alignment strategies and a scan of eleven cities on their current and planned efforts to promote educational alignment for young children. NLC then examined PreK-3rd grade alignment efforts in Boston, Hartford, San Jose, San Antonio, and Seattle. Site visits and interviews were conducted in coordination with city officials within each community to ensure access to critical individuals (key city staff, school leadership, and other relevant stakeholders) and program models (visits to schools and early childhood programs). Follow-up phone and email correspondence ensured accuracy and thorough information gathering. Case studies were developed for each city.

Data Sources
Data was collected through censuses, surveys, city records/reports, local school data/reports, electoral statistics, semi-structured and structured interviews.

Substantiated Conclusions
PreK-3rd grade alignment is a relatively new body of work for local elected officials. Even in cities that have made significant progress, most feel they still have a great deal of additional work to accomplish in order to see positive impacts. As a result, each case study may only demonstrate full and successful implementation in a few key areas. Ideal alignment has yet to unfold but there are successful strategies being implemented at the local level. By building structures and better aligning systems, city leaders can: streamline administrative procedures associated with disparate programming; mitigate funding competitions; reduce duplicative services; promote the effective use of scarce city resources; work closely with school officials; and form a more unified voice to promote quality early care and education.

Significance
Strong PreK-3rd grade alignment efforts can go a long way in improving both educational systems and ensuring that children are always ready to succeed. In cities across the country, dedicated and pioneering municipal officials, school leaders, and community partners are coming together to talk about, plan, and implement efforts to create a coherent system of learning from preschool to third grade.

Author

• Tonja Rucker, The National League of Cities