Getting In Sync

This report highlights problems nationwide with the licensing and preparation of teachers who work with young children in pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, first-, second- and third-grade classrooms. The report, "Getting in Sync: Revamping Licensure and Preparation for Teachers in Pre-K, Kindergarten and the Early Grades,"shows that today's system is not set up to ensure teachers in pre-kindergarten through the third grades are well-prepared to work with young children.

The quality of the instruction that children receive in pre-kindergarten through the third grade (PreK-3rd) can make a lasting impact on how well they perform throughout their years in school. Because children in these grades are still developing foundational skills, their teachers need preparation that is different from what is required of their late-elementary school counterparts. Teachers at all grade levels, the report says, must be equipped with knowledge and skills that show a deep understanding of how children develop, but this is especially critical for PreK-3rd teachers. These instructors must learn about the science of early-childhood development (including a focus on social-emotional growth) and family engagement, as well as gain experience in how to provide effective instruction in subjects such as early science, early literacy and the building blocks of mathematics.

You can download the full report by clicking here or on the link to the right.