School Improvement in Maryland

Early Childhood Initiatives

Recent research shows that the first years in a child's life are the foundation for school success. Actions taken before children enter kindergarten impact their abilities to thrive during elementary school years and beyond.

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has established a number of early childhood initiatives which promote best practices in early pedagogy and support the school reform efforts in Maryland.

The Judith P. Hoyer Early Child Care and Education Enhancement Program is a statewide effort to help young children enter school ready to learn.