Hilltop's Institute Evening Discussion Series Presents:
Is Play an Equity Issue? - A Community Discussion
Thursday, May 12th
Facilitated by Margie Carter

Join us for a discussion reviewing points in Michael Grammling's new book, The Great Disconnect, and hear what local educators working in publicly funded programs are doing to counter the opportunity gap.

With substantial research on the value of play for children's learning and brain development, and increasing understanding of the importance of developmentally appropriate practices and inquiry based learning, why are so many low income children in programs that give them less and less time for play?

Studies show that children in publicly funded programs intended to close the achievement gap are actually widening it. Meanwhile programs free from funding restrictions have more flexibility to develop innovative, child-centered practices, but are available only to the children and families who can afford them. What's going on here?

Michael Gramling's new book The Great Disconnect explores the discrepancy between what we have learned from research and what we actually do in the classroom. Join us for a conversation about Michael Gramling's book, facilitated by Margie Carter, and help us:

explore the disconnect between theory, policy, and practice;

consider the relationship of this disconnect to issues of equity, the opportunity gap, and social justice in early learning;

and hear from program leaders who are finding ways to reconnect their practice to what they know young children need and deserve

While guests are not required to have read The Great Disconnect before the discussion, we highly encourage you to get a copy and engage with these important ideas! You can order a copy from our friends at Harvest Resources.

Washington STARS hours available - please bring your MERIT I.D. number.

Part of Hilltop's 2015-2016 Evening Discussion Series
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Many thanks to our Evening Discussion Series sponsor:

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