Children's Equity Project: Early Childhood Education Research & Policy
The Children's Equity Project at Arizona State University advances equity in early childhood education through research, policy analysis, and technical assistance focused on Head Start, child care, disability, and more.
About the CEP
The Children’s Equity Project is a child policy center housed at Arizona State University. Our work uses data and research to inform policies that promote child wellbeing, close opportunity gaps, and advance civil and human rights in all of the systems that impact the lives of children and families.
We engage in rigorous original research and data analysis; partner with decision makers at every level of government to inform policies that set the conditions that enable every child to thrive, particularly children from historically and contemporarily marginalized communities; and engage with states and communities to provide systems building training and technical assistance.
Our work spans early childhood, K-12 education, health and mental health, immigration, economic justice, and disability policy, among other areas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Children’s Equity Project (CEP) is a child policy center housed at Arizona State University. CEP conducts research, analyzes policy, and provides technical assistance to advance equity, strengthen child and family-serving systems, close opportunity gaps, and help all children thrive.
CEP studies policies and systems affecting children and families, including early childhood education, Head Start, child care, K–12 education, disability inclusion, health and mental health, immigration, child welfare, economic justice, civil rights, and exclusionary discipline.
CEP uses original research, data analysis, policy recommendations, partnerships, training, and technical assistance to identify inequities and improve the systems serving children and families. Its work pays particular attention to children and communities that have historically experienced barriers to opportunity.
CEP publishes research reports, policy briefs, data analyses, implementation tools, public comments, blogs, webinars, and other resources covering early childhood education, Head Start, child care, disability inclusion, dual language learners, discipline, mental health, and family policy.
Yes. CEP conducts research and policy analysis on Head Start access, quality, inclusion, educational practices, services for children and families, and the Head Start Program Performance Standards. Its work also compares federal Head Start requirements with state child care policies.
CEP’s resources are designed for policymakers, researchers, educators, early childhood professionals, advocates, system leaders, families, journalists, and others working to improve opportunities and outcomes for children. The research can support policy development, advocacy, program improvement, and public understanding.
Yes. CEP provides research-informed training and technical assistance to federal, state, local, and community leaders. This work helps organizations examine inequitable policies and practices, strengthen child- and family-serving systems, and translate evidence into policy and practice.
Yes. The Children’s Equity Project is housed within Arizona State University’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. CEP collaborates with researchers, policymakers, practitioners, organizations, and communities across the United States.