Early Math Initiative

The California Statewide Early Math Initiative is a funding opportunity aimed at supporting the continued development, identification, and distribution of early math resources across the state. This initiative is focused on providing professional learning and coaching for educators, as well as expanding mathematical learning opportunities for children in early education settings. The Fresno County Office of Education was selected as the original grantee in 2018 through a request for applications process, and it has continued to receive funding to implement and grow early math initiatives statewide. The primary goal of the initiative is to promote early math learning for children in Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) through grade 3. By developing a range of resources and professional development opportunities, the project seeks to strengthen early math education throughout California. This initiative focuses on equipping educators with tools and methods to enhance their teaching and foster a solid foundation in mathematics for young learners. The initiative is funded by the State of California, as allocated in the Fiscal Year 2021-22 State Budget Act and supported by Article 4.5, Chapter 6.1 of Part 28 of Division 4 of Title II of the Education Code. A total of $45,000,000 is available for the initiative, and this funding is specifically intended for the expansion of early math education throughout the state. This funding is available to other organizations or agencies with no specific eligibility criteria outlined, but the program targets agencies that have the capacity to engage in statewide efforts to improve early math education. Eligible organizations include those that can contribute to the development and delivery of professional development and resources for educators, and those that can effectively scale these efforts across various regions of California. There are no matching fund requirements for applicants, and the allocation formula for disbursement is not provided. The funding aims to further the objectives of the California Statewide Early Math Initiative by supporting projects that will have a broad impact on the state’s early childhood math education landscape. Although specific application details and deadlines are not provided, applicants are encouraged to contact the Early Education Division of the California Department of Education for further guidance and updates.