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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).
In collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care, the MA Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (the Department) developed Welcome to Kindergarten! A Planning Toolkit for Massachusetts' Schools, Families, and Communities . The toolkit is designed to support public schools, community-based preschool programs, community-based organizations and families to work together to support young children in their transition to kindergarten. The toolkit contains 3 Guides; Ready Schools Guide; Ready Families Guide; and —Ready Communities Guide — along with a number of other resources to support communities to come together to plan a vision for transitions along with a plan that can be implemented locally.
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is rolling out a Playful Learning Institute (PLI) initiative for preschool through third grade educators and administrators. Plans for the 2024-25 school year are underway and will include supporting districts to implement playful learning instructional strategies as part of districts' plans to utilize high quality instructional materials (HQIM). Additional information on opportunities to become involved in the PLI will be posted to our website once confirmed.
DESE and EEC are collaborating to provide technical assistance and resources to support Massachusetts Pre-K programs in selecting and using Pre-K language and literacy assessments. Resources and learning opportunities will be posted on the Early Learning Resources website as they become available. Please contact Juin Liu with any questions.
We continue to offer support, technical assistance, and networking opportunities for kindergarten programs, early childhood coordinators, and families. More information about these opportunities is available in the PD Calendar and please sign up for our Prek-3rd Grade Learning newsletter to receive more information and updates.
Laws, Regulations, and Guidance
Resources
Information for Families
Donna Traynham Early Learning Team Lead Donna.J.Traynham@mass.gov 781-338-6372
Emily Taylor Early Learning Specialist Emily.M.Taylor@mass.gov 781-338-6313
Kelly Rooney Early Learning Specialist Kelly.Meehan-Rooney@mass.gov 781-338-6334
Or contact Rachelle Engler Bennett, Associate Commissioner, Student and Family Support, or any SFS staff, via achievement@mass.gov or 781-338-3010.
Office of Student and Family Support (SFS) Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education 135 Santilli Highway, Everett, MA 02149
Last Updated: December 4, 2025