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Early Childhood Plan Evaluation

Research Team

Principal Investigator: Greg Welch

Funding Information

Funding Agency: W.K. Kellogg Foundation

Award Date: Nov 1, 2016

End Date: Jul 31, 2020

Abstract

Operational in June 2013, the purpose of the Buffett Institute is to transform early childhood development — especially for children placed at risk primarily due to poverty — by leveraging the resources of the University of Nebraska’s four campuses and applying the best of what is known about the science of early childhood intervention. 

The Buffett Institute focuses on conducting applied research; advancing systems of professional preparation and learning for early childhood educators and providers who work with young children; ensuring public policy is informed by the best available evidence; and providing outreach and public education to support positive social change for optimal child development. 

The Buffett Institute’s mission is to transform the lives of young, at-risk children by improving their learning and development. To achieve the long-term goal of increasing opportunities and eliminating achievement gaps by the third grade for such children, the Institute’s short-term outcomes include ensuring that: 

  • children’s health and development are on track;
  • their learning and development are on target;
  • families are supported and supportive;
  • high-quality early childhood programs are accessible;
  • early childhood workforce is skilled and informed;
  • communities are engaged; and
  • policies are child-focused.
The home visiting portion of the Superintendent’s Early Childhood Plan focuses on supporting the early health and development of young children, as well as supporting families. Information from this aspect of the plan Superintendent’s Early Childhood Plan would help to provide needed information to achieve the short-term goal of children’s health and development being on track and families being supported and supportive, leading to more opportunities for children placed at risk to meet their potential.

Research & Evaluation Methods, Early Education & Development

The evaluation research team includes, from left, Iheoma Iruka, Helen Raikes, Julia Torquati and Greg Welch.
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