Final Report: Evaluation of the Arkansas Early Childhood Professional Development System (AECPDS), Executive Summary

This evaluation of the Arkansas Early Childhood Professional Development System (AECPDS) consisted of a comprehensive review and assessment of the system's components to determine their impact on outcomes for early childhood professionals and on the quality of care for young children in Arkansas. As an initial step in the design of the AECPDS evaluation, a logic model was created through an iterative process involving the system's stakeholders. Data indicate that the State's investment in quality initiatives is paying off. Findings show there are a number of strengths and positive outcomes to what Arkansas has in place to improve the quality of care for young children through its professional development system that serves the early care and education workforce. However, even though Arkansas is making good strides, there are a number of areas where improvements can be made (e.g., they should take steps to ensure that professional development opportunities are eligible for college credit). The research design for the evaluation of AECPDS is appended.