Case Study – Transforming Early Childhood Education in Broward County, FL 

The Challenge

The Need for Early Childhood Learning Supports

Early childhood is a critical period for cognitive and social development, laying the foundation for lifelong learning. According to a longitudinal study by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), early readiness is closely linked to later academic success.

The study highlights that children entering kindergarten with strong literacy and cognitive skills often outperform their peers, particularly when these skills are reinforced both at home and in educational settings. However, in many underserved communities, early learning supports can be scarce, leaving children without the essential building blocks needed for future academic achievement.

Quantifiable Impact of CLI’s Initiative The results of CLI’s work in Broward County speak volumes about the power of targeted early childhood intervention: 1 Improved Student Outcomes 84% of children met or exceeded expectations on the Literacy Florida Assessment for Instruction in Reading (FAST). These metrics also represent an impressive 38% decrease in the number of children performing below expectations. 2 Teacher Growth There was a measurable increase in teacher instructional capacity, with CLI’s support leading to sustainable instructional changes. Teachers consistently incorporated the strategies learned, which included daily read-alouds and activities that acknowledged children’s strengths and home cultures. 3 Community and Classroom Culture Quotes from teachers illustrate the profound change in classroom dynamics. One Broward County teacher noted, “The kids were able to talk about things and answer questions at a much higher level because of the coaching I received around Intentional Read Alouds.”

The Solution

CLI’s Comprehensive Support

Children’s Literacy Initiative (CLI) has long recognized the importance of early literacy in shaping academic trajectories. During the Education, Innovation, and Research (EIR) federal grant implementation, CLI worked with 24 early childhood centers across Broward County, FL, serving 1,246 children, 172 classroom teachers, and 42 center leaders.

This initiative included professional development workshops, job-embedded coaching, and comprehensive curriculum implementation support. CLI’s approach was to create developmentally appropriate, culturally sustaining, and identity-affirming learning environments.

Key elements of CLI’s work in Broward County included:

An Early Childhood Director in Hallandale, FL, praised the support: “Our dedicated teachers have gained invaluable knowledge and insights from [CLI’s] team. The implementation of [CLI’s] curriculum has undeniably proven beneficial to our students, and the teachers agree that it serves as a valuable asset within their classrooms.”

Conclusion

Building Quality in Early Childhood Education Through Systemic Change

CLI’s partnership with early childhood centers in Broward County demonstrates that with the right support, teachers can transform their classrooms into welcoming spaces where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to learn. The success of this initiative reaffirms the importance of early learning programs that are culturally responsive and developmentally supportive.

Michele LaCoursiere-Ferrer Managing Director of Strategic Partnerships

Do you want to learn more about CLI’s services or support our efforts in Early Childhood Education? Visit us here to find out more and to connect directly with Michele LaCoursiere-Ferrer, Managing Director of Strategic Partnerships