Curriculum Learning Communities
The Curriculum Learning Communities (CLC) project helps early learning programs implement developmentally appropriate curricula. Initially, it supports programs that use Creative Curriculum or HighScope Curriculum, with plans to include other approved curricula in the future. CLC is based on best practices and lessons learned from the local Ready Schools Miami project and other local and national early childhood curriculum implementation initiatives.
The goals of the Curriculum Learning Communities project are to:
- improve fidelity and accountability for curriculum implementation through job embedded professional development;
- empower programs and teachers by building onsite capacity through innovative strategies and systematic training and support; and
- assist Quality Counts centers in making progress in their quality rating.
Each Curriculum Learning Community consists of groups of 15-20 centers that are implementing the same curriculum. The group works together to implement the curriculum over time, share successes, and work to solve challenges.
Each center selects two peer facilitators, ideally one infant/toddler and one preschool. The peer facilitators:
- Receive training on how to implement a learning community at their program so the entire program can benefit from the trainings;
- Complete 18-20 days of training on either Creative Curriculum or HighScope and 5-7 days of Peer Facilitator’s training over more than a year;
- Work with peers on-site to implement the approach between each training;
- Provide feedback to each other and the trainers on what worked (and didn’t);
- Participate in Learning Showcases to share what they have learned over the CLC;
- Over the course of the CLC, increase appropriate implementation of the curriculum approach, providing higher quality care and education for young children and their families.
In addition to the specialized training, centers are be able to access curriculum materials, incentives to cover staff time, support from the learning communities to ensure successful implementation, and ongoing coordination and follow up.
For additional information, please contact Ana Pizano at apizano@elcmdm.org .
