The District of Columbia Office of the State Superintendent of Education, Division of Early Childhood Education (OSSE/ECE) is partnering with DC’s early learning community to celebrate the Week of the Young Child April 11-17, 2010.  As part of the national Week of the Young Child celebrated across the country, DC is honoring young children and all those who make a difference in children’s lives.

“The District is committed to providing all young children access to high-quality early learning experiences that will prepare them for later learning,” said State Superintendent of Education Kerri Briggs. Carla Thompson, Assistant Superintendent of Education, added “The Week of the Young Child brings together early childhood professionals so that we can collectively share with the community the message that the early years are learning years for all young children.”

The Week of the Young Child, developed by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), is an opportunity for early childhood programs across the country, including child care and Head Start programs, preschools and elementary schools, to hold activities to bring awareness to the needs of young children.

Young children and their families depend on high-quality education and care, which help children get a great start, and bring lasting benefits to Washington, DC. "Week of the Young Child" is a time to recognize the importance of early learning and early literacy, and to celebrate the teachers and policies that bring early childhood education to young children.

The District of Columbia Office of the State Superintendent of Education, Division of Early Childhood Education (OSSE/ECE), is the lead agency responsible for coordinating early childhood education services to District of Columbia children and their families. OSSE/ECE provides leadership and coordination to ensure all District of Columbia children from birth to kindergarten entrance have access to high quality early childhood development programs. OSSE/ECE also works to develop an effective early childhood education system by implementing high standards for programs and professionals, creating supports to meet standards, adhering to rigorous accountability measures, engaging community stakeholders and securing strong financial supports.

View [PDF] the complete itinerary, list of partners and contacts.