Current Initiatives
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Racism in the Early Years
Researchers at CEED conduct applied research using a strengths-based equity impact framework that examines young Black children’s positive growth and development within education, health, and community settings to promote the thriving and academic success of Black children and their families.
Enhancing Classroom Conversations
Researchers at CEED, in partnership with colleagues from other universities, are investigating the strengths and needs of Black children in terms of early literacy skills and the use of oral language–specifically conversations and narratives–to foster relationships, build identity, and advance their learning.
Preschool Evaluation
Researchers at CEED are working to transform the education experience of children by conducting research that is focused on culturally sustaining, antiracist practices, the measures of equitable classroom instruction, and how non-traditional education pedagogies are related to school success and wellbeing.
Reimagining Childcare
CEED strives to provide leadership and mentorship opportunities grounded in equity and antiracist coaching, training, and systemic professional development plans that prepare diverse scientists, practitioners, and teachers for success in the field.
RISER
The Researchers Investigating Sociocultural Equity and Race (RISER) Network, co-founded by Stephanie M. Curenton of Boston University and Iheoma U. Iruka from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, constitutes a powerful collaboration amongst seasoned, mid-level, and emerging scholars. This network’s primary objective is to undertake applied child development research with a specific focus on fostering the positive development of Black children.
Playful Learning
PLI is a pilot initiative in 2023-2024 to expand playful learning practices in prekindergarten through third grade classrooms in Massachusetts. Five school districts across the state are participating in the institute which includes asynchronous online training, in-person professional development and regular coaching.
Planting CEEDs of Joy and Peace
CEED Team Members engage in volunteer efforts to nurture relations among children, caregivers, and surrounding systems of community partners and Boston University.