State policymakers have an exciting opportunity to level the playing field for early childhood education with thoughtful system design using the newly released Preschool Development Grant Birth to Five, also known as PDG B-5. This grant provides funding to State early childhood agencies’ to strengthen early childhood systems. In particular, a portion of PDG B-5 funding is targeted for Renewal Grants—24 out of 25 eligible states are expected to be awarded funding for PDG B-5 Renewal Grants. These Renewal  Grants will provide three consecutive years of funding to support activities and implementation in each state. 

Moving towards a post-pandemic world, early childhood education is still in a fractured state of recovery. Numerous headlines define the inequitable foundation early childhood system is built on that limits educators’ capacity to thrive and impact children’s lives. Yet demand for early learning remains steadfast as families get back to routines in communities everywhere. How do policymakers start to level the playing field for early childhood programs with equitable policies while increasing access for families in need of high-quality care? 

With the introduction of CLASS® 2nd Edition, Teachstone’s commitment to support interactions at the heart of all quality early childhood experiences remains steadfast. At the same time, in order to provide positive interactions, we recognize a stable foundation is necessary for all early childhood programs. In 2022, early childhood programs are facing mounting challenges due to the pandemic, including workforce shortages, teacher burnout, and inequitable access for children and families.