Nevada has been working towards B-3rd alignment for over 10 years. The purpose of B-3 is to improve the quality and coherence of children's learning opportunities and encompasses the range of children's learning experiences from birth (pre-school) through third grade. It is not a mixed bag of initiatives or programs, but rather requires intentional planning, formally designed strategies, and explicit leadership and support. It includes strategies to align curriculum, assessment, and instructional practices across this continuum. Key elements or buckets include: Cross-sector work, Administrator Effectiveness, Teacher Effectiveness, Instructional Tools, Learning Environments, Data-Driven Improvement, Engaged Families, and Continuity and Pathways. Listed/linked below are several of the NDE's current B-3 projects:

• P-3 Leadership Academy (Administrators)
• DAP Kindergarten Policy Statement
  • Developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) refers to when classroom instruction, interaction, and the environment align with what we know is best for children based on child development research. DAP promotes each child’s optimal development and learning through a strengths-based, play-based approach to joyful, engaged learning.
• DAP Kindergarten and First Grade Cohorts
• Pillars of the P-3 Promise
• Early Educator of the Year Award
  • The Early Educator of the Year award is open to teachers working with infants through preschool (age 5) students. Take a moment to nominate an exceptional teacher by using the form here.