Early Literacy Matters (ELM) assists early childhood educators to develop and implement classroom strategies that are research-based and standards driven, by:
• Establishing print-rich environments
• Designing developmentally appropriate classrooms
• Creating specific areas for reading and writing
• Providing training in the basic components of emergent literacy:
1. Oral language facilitation
2. Emergent comprehension
3. Print concepts
4. Alphabet letter and sound knowledge
5. Phonemic awareness including sound manipulation and letter combinations
6. Emergent writing
• Providing a Professional Development Pathway
1. Ongoing workshops
2. Professional Outreach Program – CEU’s granted
3. Mentor Program
4. Non-degree courses
5. A.S. Degree Program through Hillsborough Community College – Ybor Campus
6. B.S. Degree Program through University of South Florida – Lakeland Campus
• Developing Family Involvement strategies
• Developing relationships with Child Care Directors
• Promoting and establishing other agency or program partnerships
