National Principals’ Survey on Early Childhood Instructional Leadership
McCormick Institute for Early Childhood
The National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), the McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership at National Louis University, and New America partnered to study early childhood instructional leadership in schools. The National Principals’ Survey on Early Childhood Instructional Leadership was conducted in 2016 with the NAESP membership. This environmental scan collected basic descriptive data about the roles within schools and districts that contribute to instructional leadership and teacher supervision in preK classrooms. The survey was designed to examine the distribution of leadership functions; the influence of elementary principals on supporting children transitioning to kindergarten; classroom activities in pre-K and primary classrooms; and the alignment of curriculum, standards, and instruction across the pre-K-3 continuum.
Scaffolded Beginnings supports effective staff onboarding through intentional orientation design, helping early childhood programs build confident, competent, and connected teams from day one.
Learn how the McCormick Institute for Early Childhood is transforming early childhood education through innovative programs and workforce development. Our mission is to expand access, equity, and opportunity for young children and families across Illinois and beyond, drawing on decades of leadership in the field.
Discover our journey from Elizabeth Harrison's 1886 vision to train women as kindergarten teachers to the renowned McCormick Institute for Early Childhood. Learn how a $600 grant in 1985 ignited a movement that transformed early childhood leadership and explore the pioneering educators and pivotal moments that shaped our legacy.
Meet the dedicated experts, researchers, and leaders who drive the McCormick Institute's mission to transform early childhood education and support the early childhood workforce.
