For the past nine years, Crete-Monee School District 201-U has partnered with the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) to strengthen early learning through the Kindergarten Individual Development Survey (KIDS), supporting kindergarten readiness across Illinois.
KIDS is an observational assessment tool that provides insight into the developmental readiness of children entering kindergarten. It helps teachers, administrators, families, and policymakers better understand and respond to the needs of young learners.
Crete-Monee has fully implemented KIDS as both a state-aligned assessment and a foundational framework for early learning. We are also proud to have one of the only Board of Education members in the state serving on the statewide KIDS committee. Board President Maurice Brown represents our district in this important work and helps elevate our leadership in early childhood education. By focusing on developmental expectations, we are working to ensure every child begins their educational journey with a strong foundation for success.
The district offers pre-kindergarten programming and has prioritized alignment between early childhood education and kindergarten expectations. Under the leadership of the Office of Teaching and Learning, this alignment has been a key focus over the past three years, during which the district has served as a pilot site for this work. Efforts have included enhancing classroom environments, strengthening observation practices through KIDS, and expanding professional learning centered on play-based instruction.
As a result, school districts across Illinois have reached out to learn more about Crete-Monee’s approach and implementation.
Play-based instruction remains central to early learning in our classrooms. The district has invested in materials and environments that support student growth, with nine kindergarten classrooms serving as models of developmentally appropriate instruction.
“Our goal is to ensure every child enters kindergarten ready to thrive, not just academically, but socially and emotionally as well,” said Superintendent Dr. Kara Coglianese. “By aligning our Pre-K and kindergarten programs and focusing on developmentally appropriate, play-based learning, we are building a strong foundation that sets our students up for long-term success.”
Dr. Ghantel Perkins, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, emphasized the district’s commitment to early learners.“Through innovation, alignment, and a commitment to early learners, we are truly leading the way in Illinois, and that is something to be extremely proud of.” Dr. Perkins also recognized Kelly Chesta, Director of the Early Learning Center, for her leadership in supporting kindergarten readiness alongside district educators.
The district’s work has drawn recognition at the state level. Sandra Ehrat, a coach with ISBE KIDS, recently addressed the Board of Education and highlighted Crete-Monee as a leader in early childhood education. Districts from across Illinois have also expressed interest in visiting to observe the district’s model in action.
Crete-Monee 201-U plans to host a future networking opportunity to share best practices and continue supporting educators across the state in strengthening kindergarten readiness. When we invest in our earliest learners, we build a stronger future for all.