Priorities for Early Care and Education Research at the Administration for Children and Families

• In Event: Federal Support for Early Learning and Development Research: Current Research Priorities

Abstract

The Office of Planning, Research, and Evaluation (OPRE) at the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) will present information on current and future investments in research on early care and education with particular attention paid to the distinct needs of diverse racial and ethnic groups. Primarily through grants and contracts, OPRE studies federally funded programs administered by ACF. These programs are designed to improve the economic and social well-being of children and families. Given the populations served by ACF are racially and ethnically diverse, it is important that OPRE’s research and evaluation investments recognize and adapt to this diversity. OPRE is working to better incorporate research frameworks and principles that emphasize tailoring research activities to be valid, reliable, and relevant as well as acknowledge the historical and current lived experiences of the many communities served by ACF programs into future efforts. The presentation will focus on how race and ethnic equity principles are reflected in current and future research investments to inform: (1) the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), administered by ACF’s Office of Child Care; and (2) the Head Start/Early Head Start program (HS/EHS), administered by ACF’s Office of Head Start.

Authors

• Amanda Coleman, Administration for Children and Families
  Presenting Author

• Tracy Carter Clopet, United States Office of Planning, Research & Evaluation (OPRE)
  Non-Presenting Author