With growing recognition of its critical role in a child’s educational journey, the transition into kindergarten is gaining renewed attention. In June 2024, the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading’s Kindergarten Matters webinar series highlighted the timely importance of the transition into the kindergarten year: what this shift can look like for students and families, what programs might make the process easier, and how we can collaborate at the policy and practice levels to ensure a seamless transition. While this remains vital, the conversation around transitions in early education cannot stop with the move into kindergarten. 

The transition into first grade presents unique challenges and opportunities for young learners, educators and parents as they adapt to increased academic and social demands. While much emphasis has been placed on ensuring kindergarten success and on the transition into kindergarten, it is equally crucial to recognize the importance of supporting early learners throughout early childhood. Data consistently shows that gaps in academic and social skills emerging by the end of kindergarten can persist through the early elementary grades if not adequately addressed. Despite powerful efforts to “close the gap” during students’ kindergarten year, challenges can resurface if students and families are not given consistent support as they enter first grade.

Please join us on July 9, from 3-4:30 p.m. ET, as an expert panel delves into the critical next step: the transition from kindergarten to first grade. Leaders from Atlanta Speech School, Educare Learning Network, Education Development Center (EDC) and Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at University of North Carolina (UNC) will share powerful insights into the kindergarten to first grade transition and will provide earnest perspective about the need for enhanced communication and supports for students and their families during this transition.