Preschool Instructional Quality
Closing early language and literacy gaps.
Giving Kids a Strong Start: The Big Lift’s Preschool Literacy Support
We’re helping our youngest learners build the foundation they need for future reading and academic success, starting in the classroom and extending to the home.
Supporting Preschool Classrooms Across San Mateo County
The Big Lift is unique in its focus on science of reading in preschool, utilizing cutting edge approaches not found in most preschools nationwide. This ensures we don’t miss a critical opportunity to close early language and literacy gaps closer to when they start. The Big Lift currently works with 47 preschool classrooms, reaching just under 1,000 low-income preschool children and their families annually. Here’s how we’re boosting early literacy outcomes:
- Training & Coaching: Monthly professional development for early childhood educators, focusing on the “Big 5” predictors of early literacy.
- Professional Learning Communities: Peer collaboration and learning for early childhood leaders to strengthen literacy instruction.
- Assessment: Early literacy skill assessment using the Individual Development & Growth Indicators (IGDIs) benchmark assessment to accelerate teaching and learning
- Support for Dual Language Learners: Supporting oral language development of dual language learners in preschool settings
The Big Lift works with two best in class partners to anchor its preschool work and ensure it’s research-based:
Proven Impact: What the Data Shows
A 2021 evaluation by the RAND Corporation found that our preschool partnerships are making a real difference:
- The Big Lift preschool attendees were 22% more likely to be kindergarten-ready than children with no preschool.
- By third grade, they had double the English language reclassification rate (31% vs 15%) of children with no preschool.
- Higher attendance rates compared to children with no preschool.
- Kids who attended both a preschool partnering with The Big Lift and our Inspiring Summers program were more kindergarten-ready than those who only attended one or neither.
Every Child Deserves a Strong Start
By infusing evidence-based language and literacy into preschool settings, we’re equipping children with the skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.
Interested in Learning More?
Contact Diana Harlick, dharlick@smcoe.org
Program Manager, P-3 Literacy & Evaluation for The Big Lift
San Mateo County Office of Education