Strengthening Early Education: California Education Partners and El Dorado County Office of Education’s Partnership Drives P-3 Success

12:25 PM - October 03, 2024

In a significant effort to improve early education, California’s Pre-K to 3rd Grade (P-3) initiative is making waves through innovative partnerships and practices here in El Dorado County. Spearheaded by California Education Partners (Ed Partners) in collaboration with the El Dorado County Office of Education (EDCOE), this initiative focuses on aligning educational standards and enhancing student outcomes, particularly in mathematics.

A key component of the joint efforts for this initiative are the P3 Coherence Collaboration Convenings, which take place twice per year. The Fall Convening was held in early September, where over 75 teachers from eight El Dorado County school districts, along with participants from EDCOE’s Child Development Program, gathered at EDCOE’s Green Valley campus. The event, facilitated by Ed Partners, not only marks a significant expansion in its second year with the addition of three new districts, but also emphasizes the importance of making math instruction engaging and rigorous. Jill Morton, EDCOE's Director of Professional Development, noted, “This is about systems work, helping our districts build capacity with a focus on mathematical instruction.”

Keyur Shah, Senior Program Manager at Ed Partners, outlines the initiative's foundational goals: setting clear expectations for grade-level standards, implementing effective instructional practices, building educator capacity, and monitoring student progress. "We've seen tremendous progress in El Dorado County," Shah stated, emphasizing the collaboration among districts to enhance teaching practices.

At the heart of this effort, teachers examine current curricula and instruction.  The Green, Yellow, Red (GYR) activity allows teachers to assess their curricula against grade-level standards. Morton elaborates, “This activity empowers teachers to identify gaps in their lessons, ensuring they meet the required rigor.” Additionally, the use of open tasks fosters critical thinking, encouraging students to explore mathematical concepts deeply.

The Fall Convening serves as a platform for networking, sharing best practices and discussing innovative instructional strategies. “Math can be fun and engaging,” Morton remarked, highlighting the excitement among educators as they explore new techniques.

As the initiative progresses, measurable outcomes are already emerging. Educators are more intentional in utilizing formative and summative assessments, which guide their instruction and ensure continuous monitoring of student progress. Shah emphasizes, “This data-driven approach allows us to adapt our teaching methods based on student needs.”

Looking ahead, both Ed Partners and EDCOE are optimistic about sustaining and expanding the P-3 model. “We’re encouraging leaders to take elements of this system change and apply them as students transition through their educational journeys,” Shah said.

Dr. Ed Manansala, El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools, opened the Fall Convening with a poignant welcome speech, emphasizing the significance of the growing partnership with Ed Partners.

“The partnership between Ed Partners and EDCOE to carry out the P-3 initiative exemplifies our commitment to building strong foundations for all learners. By enhancing early mathematics education and fostering a culture of collaboration among educators, the alliance between Ed Partners and EDCOE promises to set the stage for lifelong learning,” Manansala said.

“Together, we’re not just improving student outcomes, we’re redefining the early education landscape in El Dorado County, and beyond.”

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