As we explored in our May forum, Americans across the political spectrum embrace universal early childhood education. But what about school-success initiatives that reach back even further to support newborns, toddlers, and their parents? What can be achieved when educators, abuse-prevention experts, parents, government officials, businesses, philanthropies, and community groups collaborate?

Panelists will analyze the complexities of enacting effective school-readiness policies and programs. Their observations will address what's behind the latest interest in such initiatives, the social and political environments needed for successful early learning centers and home visitation efforts, the lessons states can draw from Illinois' recent experience; and the importance of integrating home-based and learning-center programs, and providing consistent training and supervision for providers.

Please join us as we continue our ongoing discussion about policies and programs affecting our nation's children, families, and communities. Speakers:

• Shelley Waters Boots, research associate, Urban Institute
• Deborah Daro, research fellow, Chapin Hall Center for Children at the University of Chicago
• Graciela Italiano-Thomas, president and CEO, Thrive by Five Washington
• Ann Kirwan, vice president for national policy consultation, The Ounce of Prevention Fund
• Moderator: Debra Williams, associate editor, Catalyst Chicago