The Alabama Pre-K – 3rd Grade Integrated Approach to Early Learning began as a pilot in 2017, supporting 35 classrooms in 5 districts, and is now funded by Governor Ivey’s Strong Start Strong Finish initiative. This innovative structure provides a high-quality, developmentally appropriate environment that aligns state standards from pre-K through 3rd grade and supports the development of the whole child.
P-3 is an educational approach that aligns curriculum, instruction, and assessment from pre-K to 3rd grade to bridge the gaps in early learning and improve long-term student outcomes. P-3 coaches serve as thought partners with schools and teachers as they integrate developmentally appropriate practice into daily learning experiences that are built on children’s interests, state expectations, and data-driven needs. Our classrooms foster multi-sensory opportunities, honor the individuality of each child, and create a community where every child feels valued and challenged.
Research has shown that the key elements of effective pre-K–3rd grade programs include:
- High-quality, voluntary pre-K for children
- Full-day kindergarten
- Qualified teachers who have a bachelor’s degree and specialized training in the methods in which young children learn
- Opportunities for teachers to share data and participate in joint planning sessions on a regular basis, as well as collaborative professional development across grade levels
- Strong leadership committee to providing children with seamless high-quality educational experiences
- A high-quality, developmentally appropriate curriculum that aligns state standards from pre-K through 3rd grade and supports the development of the whole child
