School–early childhood zones and hubs offer a practical, research-based path. To dramatically improve outcomes for children and families, key players need to take coordinated action:
- School districts should adopt a long-term view of the soon-to-be-students in their communities and partner with early childhood providers and community organizations to support children and families before kindergarten.
- Policymakers and funders should invest not only in programs, but also in building an infrastructure that connects them—recognizing zones and hubs as critical units of change.
- Communities should organize their institutions around shared geography and shared responsibility, creating the conditions for coordinated action.
In short: Start early, connect institutions, organize efforts, strengthen communities, and support families so that all children can learn and thrive.