Kindergarten Readiness in DeKalb County
The DeKalb County Community Foundation recognizes the importance of supporting young children and their families across one of the most difficult transition in life: from early childhood to kindergarten. Early childhood experiences play a significant role in a child’s development and the degree to which a child is ready for kindergarten.
In 2016, Community Foundation board members and professionals working in early care and kindergarten education formed the Crib to Career – Kindergarten Readiness Working Group. With guidance from this working group, the Community Foundation commissioned the DeKalb County Kindergarten Readiness Study.
Conducted by the NIU Center for Governmental Studies and the NIU Center for P20 Engagement, this study provides background information to launch and inform the discussion of how best DeKalb County may prepare our children for success in school and life. Specific questions about the study may be directed to Dr. Amy Jo Clemens, ajclemens@niu.edu.
Stay tuned for more information as this new and exciting initiative develops. For more information and to find out how you can become involved, please contact Community Engagement Director Teri Spartz at 815-748-5383 or t.spartz@dekalbccf.org.
The DeKalb County Community Foundation's commitment and support to early care and education is made possible by 20 CommunityWorks funds, generating over $100,000 annually. Learn more about CommunityWorks.
The first CommunityWorks Early Care and Education initiative Impact Plan expired in 2013 although its impact significantly remains. Its goal was to increase the quality, availability and affordability of child care in DeKalb County while increasing the support of the business community. 2011 Child Care Summary.
