News and Articles

Our new logo is here! Learn how it reflects our work and the families we serve.

Learn what’s new about this year’s campaign to get kids signed up for kindergarten by June — new language, new culturally specific materials, and an expanded campaign across Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties.

When Ngo came to Portland, she felt overwhelmed and alone. Then, her son was born. The country was new. Being a mom was new. She was starting from scratch. Myle Cao from IRCO was the missing link to her new “family.”

Meet Sarah Adams, kindergarten teacher in David Douglas School District. She’s been doing home visits with incoming kindergarteners and their families for two years. Her assessment? “It’s really powerful.”

Meet Laura Peraza and Cecilia Diaz. They help young kids learn as much as they can—as early as possible—while also helping parents build confidence and skills as their kids’ first and best teachers.

In August, kids from all over Multnomah County participate in summer transition programs to “practice” before the big day. Early Kindergarten Transition (EKT) programs boost attendance in kindergarten and create school leaders big and small.

What does it mean to have parent voice at the center? It means that parents help us set priorities and affect how and where we invest time and money. In 2016, ELM and its Parent Accountability Council (PAC) celebrated two years of deciding together.