Head Start National Center on Quality Teaching and Learning

Head Start National Center on Quality Teaching and Learning

The Head Start National Center on Quality Teaching and Learning (NCQTL) is an essential part of Head Start’s initiative to improve all Head Start and Early Head Start programs in the United States. This multi-faceted Center leads the national effort to put evidence-based early childhood practices into everyday practice in Head Start programs by developing print and multi-media products, developing and delivering training and professional development, guiding the successful transition of Head Start students and families to elementary school, and implementing a higher education strategy to help Head Start teachers meet their educational requirements. The work of NCQTL contributes to Head Start’s initiatives to promote school readiness outcomes among Head Start children.

The National Center on Quality Teaching and Learning brings together a team of experts in the field of early learning who possess demonstrated effectiveness in promoting effective teaching that aims to produce the best possible outcomes for young children. The NCQTL is led by the University of Washington in partnership with the University of Virginia, Vanderbilt University, the Office of Head Start, and a number of other University partners and early learning experts. NCQTL is funded by the Office of Head Start, US Department of Health and Human Services.