Using a cluster randomized trial to evaluate the efficacy of the Early Learning Matters (ELM) Curriculum

The aim of the current study is to test the efficacy of the Early Learning Matters (ELM) curriculum for promoting school readiness for children across three geographic regions. A two-cohort Cluster Randomized Trial will be used to address our primary research aims, where preschool centers will be the unit of random assignment (N = 44 centers, 132 classrooms). Random assignment will occur within blocks that are stratified by 1) site, 2) type of center (Head Start [HS] or non-HS), 2), and 3) center size to either the ELM (n=23 centers, ~69 classrooms) or a business-as-usual control group (n=21 centers, ~63 classrooms). Children will be assessed in the fall and spring on school readiness skills. We will use three-level multilevel regression models with children nested within classrooms/teachers, which are nested within centers, controlling for a host of child and family characteristics. Fidelity of implementation data will be collected and reported.