Increasing Language to Promote Equity and Access for Young Children

• In Event: Moscone Center North Roundtable Session 13
  In Roundtable Session: Constructions of Literacy Across K–16 Settings

Abstract

The current study details the academic impact of the Early Language and Literacy Initiative (ELLI), a comprehensive language and literacy-centered early childhood program that began in 2012. The program was born out the determination of a community-based collective impact initiative to improve educational equity and access for children. The 20 study participants were preschool attendees in a northeastern U.S. city. Half of the participants attended the ELLI program and half attended other school district preschool programs. Analysis of assessments completed by children in the fall and spring of the school year showed greater gains in early literacy and language skills for children who attended the ELLI program. Implications for curricular programing and future research are discussed.

Authors

• Christine Woods, University of Florida

• Nicholas A Gage, University of Florida