EARLY CHILDHOOD

May 30 2026EDUCATION

A New Way to Learn: How One Preschool Built a 40‑Year Story

Elan Preschool in Milpitas, California, began as a tiny home daycare for six kids back in 1987. The idea that every child is different was planted early by its founder’s mother, Candy, who wanted a place where children could grow at their own pace instead of fitting into a one‑size‑fits‑all system.

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Apr 20 2026EDUCATION

Alaska sees growth in early childhood teachers after school changes

Alaska’s shortage of early childhood educators just got some help from an unlikely source: a University program that nearly lost its license but came back stronger. The University of Alaska Anchorage’s early childhood program was in trouble in 2019 when it lost important accreditation, leaving hundr

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Apr 15 2026EDUCATION

Play Day Fun for Kids at College

The college’s Early Childhood Department has a yearly event called Children’s Play Day. It takes place during the national Week of the Young Child, a time when many places focus on kids. The college partners with the International Play Association to give families a day of learning through play.

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Apr 11 2026EDUCATION

New Preschool in Adams aims to give kids a strong start

A local school is rolling out a new preschool program that could help young children get a better footing before kindergarten. The initiative is part of a larger trend showing how early education can shape a child’s school experience for years. Research suggests kids who attend preschool tend to per

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Mar 17 2026EDUCATION

How Michigan is trying to fix its childcare worker shortage

Michigan is facing a big problem—there aren’t enough people working in childcare. Research shows that in most ZIP codes, there are way more young kids than spots in daycares or preschools. That makes it hard for parents to find care and for kids to get a strong start before kindergarten. A new prog

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Jan 01 2026EDUCATION

Little Heroes, Big Lessons: Courtney Rees and Her Pre-K Classroom

Courtney Rees found her calling in a place she least expected. She was all set to teach high school English, but a summer camp volunteer gig changed everything. Working with young kids was a game-changer. Their energy was infectious, and she loved the connection she made with them. So, she switched

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Dec 29 2025EDUCATION

Little Learners Groove to the Beat

In Napa, tiny tots are getting a big start in life through music. At West Park Elementary, kindergarten and transitional kindergarten kids are having a blast learning with rhythm and song. Their after-school music classes are not just about having fun, though. These sessions are packed with benefits

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Dec 19 2025EDUCATION

Rob Reiner's Hidden Legacy: A Champion for California's Kids

Rob Reiner was a big name in Hollywood, but his impact went way beyond the screen. He was a strong advocate for California's youngest residents, focusing on their early development and education. This was not just a passing interest for him. He truly understood the science behind early brain and lan

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Dec 14 2025EDUCATION

Maine's Childcare Crisis: A Call for Community Support

Maine's childcare system is in a tough spot. Families are struggling to afford quality care, while educators are underpaid and overworked. This isn't just a family issue; it's a problem for Maine's economy too. Let's talk about the cost. Sending a baby to daycare in Cumberland County can cost over

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Nov 23 2025EDUCATION

New York's New Mayor: A Chance to Fix Schools

Zohran Mamdani is now in charge of New York City's schools. This is a big job. He has to make sure kids get a good education. But it's not easy. There are many problems. Some people want to talk about who controls the schools. Others want to talk about special programs for smart kids. But the real p

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