The Clayton County Board of Education has announced significant advancements in early childhood education during its work session and regular meeting on June 23, 2025. A key highlight was the introduction of the Riverdale Early Learning Center, set to open in August 2026, which will cater to pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students, with plans to expand to first grade in the following year. This center aims to serve as a model for early education, incorporating a "future lab" concept where students can observe and learn in real classroom settings.

The board emphasized the importance of early literacy, revealing that 76.5% of K-5 students are currently identified as moderate to high-risk readers. To address this, the district is implementing a structured literacy approach, utilizing the Orton-Gillingham (OG) method, which focuses on foundational reading skills. This initiative aligns with the Georgia Early Literacy Act, which mandates early intervention for students struggling with reading.

In addition to literacy, the board is introducing an executive functioning initiative aimed at helping students develop self-regulation skills, such as attention and emotional control. This program will be phased in for grades 2 through 12 over the next few years, with immediate implementation for K-1 students.

The meeting also highlighted the collaborative efforts of various departments within the district to ensure the success of these programs. Teachers will receive extensive training, with 20 days of professional development planned for those teaching at the new early learning center.

As the district prepares for these changes, board members expressed enthusiasm for the potential impact on student outcomes, particularly in reading proficiency. The board is committed to addressing the needs of all students, especially those who have fallen behind due to the pandemic, and is focused on creating a supportive learning environment that fosters academic success from an early age.