National Association of Early Childhood Specialists in State Departments of Education

The National Association of Early Childhood Specialists in State Departments of Education (NAECS-SDE) is a membership association supporting the professionals leading a variety of federally funded and/or state-specific early childhood education and care programs. Over its 40 years of existence, the association has developed or codeveloped position papers that are intended to offer both guidance and support for maintaining an early childhood focus in state policy. All of the policy statements and position papers are posted on its website.

Members develop the NAECS-SDE positions, often in collaboration with other key national partners. Over the years, the association’s positions, including positions on play, the Common Core State Standards for K–3, and attention to high-quality preschool for all, have guided members and others. A recent, comprehensive contribution of ...