FERTALY: Montana Preschool Development Grant Program Evaluation
Project Description:
We support the Montana Preschool Development Grant (PDG) program through a comprehensive evaluation, needs assessment, and strategic planning process to advance the state's early childhood system-building efforts. Our evaluation work focuses on assessing program implementation, identifying successes and challenges, and providing actionable data to inform continuous improvement. This includes revising the Program Performance Evaluation Plan (PPEP) to align with updated program goals, refining evaluation questions, and strengthening data collection strategies to meet federal reporting requirements and support ongoing decision-making. As part of the needs assessment, we work closely with the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) to review and update the initial assessment. This process integrates new data sources, addresses identified gaps, and incorporates feedback from key stakeholders. The updated needs assessment provides a current and comprehensive understanding of Montana's early childhood landscape, highlighting critical areas for investment and system development. In support of strategic planning, we facilitate working sessions with the PDG program implementation team to review and revise the state's strategic plan. This work ensures alignment between identified needs, strategic goals, and planned activities. The updated plan clarifies system priorities, defines actionable strategies, and establishes a framework to guide future program implementation and policy development. Together, these efforts provide Montana's PDG program with the tools and information needed to strengthen its early childhood system, improve service coordination, and support better outcomes for young children and their families.
Keyword(s):
early childhood systems building
Core Function(s):
Performing Research or Evaluation
Area of Emphasis
Education & Early Intervention, Child Care-Related Activities, Employment-Related Activities
Target Audience:
Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Children/Adolescents with Disabilities/SHCN
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Disadvantaged Circumstances, Geographic Areas
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
State
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
