Massachusetts Early Childhood Systems Map and Data Overview
Strategic Priority Alignment
Status
Project Goal
The Massachusetts Early Childhood Systems Map and Data Overview (“EC 101”) project aims to present the state of young children in Massachusetts in a visual, accessible format that allows for clear understanding of the current conditions of the early childhood landscape.
Rationale for Action
The ecosystem of supports for very young children is complex and hard to understand, leading to inaction in policy and funding, not to mention confusion for parents. The opaqueness acts as a hindrance to supporting children’s healthy growth and development. By mapping and describing the landscape for children 5 and under in MA, we aim to help a broad audience share in the common language, understanding, and goals of where and how to support Massachusetts’ youngest children.
Partner
After a rigorous review process involving many members of the MA ECFC community, we have selected the Rennie Center for Education Research & Policy as the project vendor. The Rennie Center has a long track record of producing work that catalyzes statewide policy priorities. In the EC 101 project, the Rennie Center will work to demystify complex information through infographics, data visualization, and narrative so that a wide range of stakeholders can understand and learn how to take action.
Timeline
The EC 101 project began in December 2021, and was launched in January 2023. Project phases included a state-specific review, data analysis, interviews and focus groups with key stakeholders, and mapping of the complex MA early childhood systems.
Project Updates
Read the initial project launch press release. Click the image below to visit the site. Watch the webinar launch, and read more about the project in the Eye on Early Education blog.
