The multidisciplinary Sherman Center for Early Learning in Urban Communities was established to advance the vision of George and Betsy Sherman, who aimed to improve learning experiences and outcomes for young children in Baltimore City. To achieve this mission, we connected theory, research, and practice with schools, families, and communities to promote the educational success of children aged zero through eight. Our activities fell within four domains:
- Research support to expand knowledge about policies and practices that enhance the learning of young children in urban communities like Baltimore;
- Professional and leadership development to provide early childhood professionals with research-informed strategies to promote young learners’ success;
- School-based partnership activities to help build socially, emotionally, and academically enriching environments for young learners in our partner schools; and
- Family outreach to support parents’ engagement in their young children’s learning and development.