In 2010, Bright from the Start, utilizing American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds, offered a Pre-K Summer Transition Program. The program was offered in 60 classes across the state. Each class was funded for 15 students and included two teachers per class as well as a transition coach for every two classrooms. All classrooms utilized the same curriculum: Opening the World of Learning (OWL).

The evaluation consisted of child pre and post assessments, classroom observations, and teacher and transition coach surveys. To comply with ARRA regulations, additional demographic data was collected and tracked. Consultants working with Georgia’s Pre-K Program collected the data and researchers from FPG Child Development Institute conducted all relevant analysis.

Overall, results from the evaluation demonstrated that participating children made significant gains in language and literacy skills over the course of the program. The full report along with program demographics can be found below. Additional questions about the program or evaluation should be directed to Monica Warren, Pre-K Director (monica.warren@decal.ga.gov), or Dr. Bentley Ponder, Research and Evaluation Director (bentley.ponder@decal.ga.gov).