Four years ago this month, a devastating wildfire ravaged southern Oregon, leaving a lasting impact on the Phoenix-Talent School District. The wildfire, combined with the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, created ripple effects that are still being felt today.
Tiffanie Lambert, assistant superintendent of teaching and learning at Phoenix-Talent School District, explains how the fire and the pandemic exacerbated existing learning losses and gaps, making them more visible and prolonged. The closure of early learning programs and preschools, along with the economic and mental health challenges faced by families, further hindered children’s access to quality education before kindergarten.
As a result, many incoming kindergarteners in the district lacked essential social and cognitive skills, impacting their ability to succeed in school. This trend is not unique to Phoenix-Talent but is reflective of a national phenomenon where children are entering kindergarten unprepared compared to previous cohorts.
Research has highlighted the struggles of young learners in the post-COVID era, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to support their development. Kristen Huff, vice president of assessment and research at Curriculum Associates, emphasizes the lasting impact of the pandemic on children’s academic and social-emotional growth.
One response to this challenge is Oregon’s Jump Start Kindergarten program, which aims to provide incoming kindergarteners and their families with an “on-ramp” to kindergarten. By utilizing federal funds, the program offers a structured learning experience to prepare children for the demands of school.
Phoenix-Talent School District has implemented the Jump Start program with positive outcomes, improving attendance rates and readiness among participants. However, the future of the program is uncertain due to funding challenges.
In contrast, Manheim Central School District in Pennsylvania has developed innovative strategies to support early childhood development. From distributing “baby bags” to introducing a badging system in preschools, the district is focused on engaging families and aligning early learning experiences with kindergarten expectations.
Aimee Ketchum’s “Countdown to Kindergarten” boxes offer families a comprehensive way to prepare their children for school, emphasizing hands-on activities and skill-building exercises. These initiatives aim to supplement formal education for families who may lack access to high-quality early childhood programs.
By empowering families with resources and tools to support their children’s development, districts like Manheim Central are bridging the gap between early learning and kindergarten readiness. These efforts underscore the importance of early intervention and support in ensuring all children have a strong foundation for academic success.
