One of the most important results to emerge from our September 1995 symposium on family literacy was renewed recognition of the need to ensure that comprehensive educational change is not stymied by a narrow vision of the prerequisites for academic success. An expanding research base now tells us that we must reach across self-created divides and focus on the whole child, the whole family, the whole community. From San Jose, California to Gainesville, Florida, local communities are establishing broad-based programs that empower families, provide social services, and promote the healthy development of children from cradle to campus. HHS is already providing families with information on the indicators they should look for in childcare programs. The goal is to make parents informed consumers as well as to enable them to work cooperatively and knowledgeably with state and local licensing agencies.
Additional progress is likely as a result of research focusing on even earlier interventions.
All of this is reason for hope, and all of this testifies to the power of research to improve academic achievement and enhance the quality of life for America's children.