Massachusetts Early Learning

Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 3 Resources

The delivery of high quality early learning opportunities that create a continuum of learning from pre-kindergarten through grade three can help close proficiency gaps and build a foundation for future success. The Early Learning team in the Office of Student and Family Support (SFS) provides guidance and coordination around policies and issues that relate to pre-kindergarten to grade three alignment initiatives in collaboration with our state agency partners, including the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC and the Department of Public Health (DPH).

Playful Learning Institute, Preschool through 3^rd Grade

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is rolling out a Playful Learning Institute initiative for preschool through third grade educators and administrators. The Playful Learning Institute competitive grant opportunity (fund code 347) has posted to DESE's Grants page.

Applications are due on Friday, February 17, 2023 at 5:00 p.m.

The Playful Learning Institute competitive grant program (Fund Code 347) will assist the Department in selecting five school teams' participation in the pilot institute. The Department's Early Learning Team hosted a Bidder's Conference on Friday, January 13, 2023 and a Drop-In Question and Answer Session on Tuesday, February 7, 2023. The slide deck used at these two meetings as well as a Question and Answer document can be found below.

• Playful Learning Institute Slide deck from 1/13/23 and 2/7/23 meetings

• Playful Learning Institute Question and Answer document

We continue to offer support, technical assistance, and networking opportunities for kindergarten programs, early childhood coordinators, and families. To find out about these opportunities, please sign up for our Prek-3^rd Grade Learning newsletter.

Additional Early Learning Information and Resource:

• Laws, Regulations, and Guidance

• Resources

• Information for Families

Contact Information:

Or contact Rachelle Engler Bennett, Associate Commissioner, Student and Family Support, or any SFS staff, via achievement@doe.mass.edu or 781-338-3010.

Office of Student and Family Support (SFS)
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
75 Pleasant St., Malden MA 02148-4906

Last Updated: September 18, 2023