Experts Discuss the Early Learning Workforce

Experts agree that quality early learning programs depend on a professional, knowledgeable, well-trained workforce; the type of workforce that AppleTree actively recruits and trains.

This past Monday, the US Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services held a joint session discussing the Early Learning Workforce as part of its “Learning about Early Learning” tour.

The discussions revolved around several critical areas related to Early Childhood professional development. First, panelists touched on the need for “teachers to address the readiness gap by focusing on both knowledge and skills, particularly executive functioning skills in which children master self-regulation.” Second, it was suggested that “coaching models could be the mediator of change” for better preparing teachers in “working with children with challenging behaviors.” Finally, it was agreed that “the quality of early learning programs will not improve unless the quality of the workforce is addressed.”

The strength of AppleTree Early Learning Public Charter Schools lies in the quality of its educational staff. Each classroom of 18 students is led by an experienced, highly-qualified professional instructor who is supported by both a fellow teacher and classroom assistant. All adults in the classroom are trained to support the social-skill and emotional development of students, in concert with the support they provide to address the early language, literacy, math and other knowledge-standards set by DC Public Schools.

To build-up and ensure the quality of our educational staff, AppleTree supports ongoing professional development. In whole-group settings, teachers are introduced to the best available scientifically-based research on early childhood development and pedagogy, and extend upon this knowledge in periodic school-based professional learning communities. Coaches regularly support teachers in connecting the research to the classroom, targeting their support and strategies based on the needs of the students in each classroom.

We at AppleTree agree that a quality workforce is essential for a quality program, and that quality programs are the key to closing school-readiness and achievement gaps.