New Tool to Support LEAs to Include Early Learning in ESSA Plans

We have a new tool to support North Carolina Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to incorporate early learning in their district plans for the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). The tool includes screenshots of information required in the online system (CCIP) and provides recommendations for how to include activities to support young children’s development beginning at birth. It was developed by EducationCounsel in partnership with the NC Early Childhood Foundation and the Office of Early Learning at the NC Department of Public Instruction.

District leaders are encouraged to review the application and this tool with early childhood leaders in their community to develop a strong, coordinated plan that supports optimal development for all children in the community.

Two recent webinars provide additional support.

  • Supporting Local Education Agencies to Include Early Learning in ESSA Plan was developed for community early childhood leaders. A recording of the webinar and the materials shared are available online.
  • Early Learning in CCIP Submission was developed for LEA staff and shares examples of specific strategies and language for LEAs to consider including. A recording of the webinar and the materials shared are available online.

The tool and webinars are part of an ongoing partnership between the North Carolina Early Childhood Foundation, the Office of Early Learning at the Department of Public Instruction and EducationCounsel. Our organizations have been working together to support LEAs and early childhood community leaders in collaborating to use ESSA as a tool to strengthen local birth-through-eight systems and support children’s school success.