DEL News

October 14, 2009
DEL seeks input on early learning benchmarks update

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Early Learning (DEL) is seeking public input as it prepares to update our state’s early learning guidelines.

An online survey is available in English and Spanish until Nov. 15 at www.del.wa.gov/development/benchmarks.

Developed in 2005 by early learning experts and stakeholders, the Washington State Early Learning and Development Benchmarks is a resource document offering a common understanding about what young children should know and be able to do at different stages in their lives. Statewide, the Benchmarks are used as a resource document for those who care for and teach young children. The document includes a recommendation that it be reviewed and updated every five years.

“Our state needs to be clear on the skills and knowledge we want our youngest learners to have to be school-ready,” said DEL Director Bette Hyde. “It’s time to review and update our Benchmarks to make sure they include reasonable expectations for children and reflect the rich diversity of our state.”

The survey offers an opportunity for parents, caregivers, educators, and others to share information about whether and how they currently use the Benchmarks, and what would make them more useful.

Many other states have developed similar early learning guidelines. For more information on Washington’s Benchmarks and links to other states’ guidelines, visit www.del.wa.gov/development/benchmarks.

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The Washington State Department of Early Learning is a Governor’s Cabinet-level state agency created in 2006 to bring heightened visibility and focus to early learning and help all Washington children reach their full potential. DEL oversees the state-funded comprehensive preschool program, child care licensing, child care subsidy policy, and other initiatives and programs to support parents as children’s first and most important teachers. For more information, visit the DEL Web site at www.del.wa.gov.

For more information:

DEL Communications Manager Amy Blondin
360.725.4919 (office)
360.878.0628 (cell)
amy.blondin@del.wa.gov