Lt. Gov. Strinden and state leaders visit Best in Class early childhood programs to celebrate five years of growth and impact

Lt. Gov. Michelle Strinden, state legislators and representatives from North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) visited Best in Class programs on Monday to observe how they promote quality early learning experiences for children in the year before kindergarten.

Children enrolled in North Dakota's Best in Class early childhood program showed remarkable growth across every area of development during the 2024-25 school year. In fall 2024, 79% of children met or exceeded literacy standards; by spring, 96% did, with the share exceeding expectations rising from 1% to 22%. Math outcomes showed similar gains, with 60% meeting expectations in the fall and none exceeding, compared to 93% meeting or exceeding by spring, including 23% exceeding expectations. Children also made strong progress in life skills, physical development, language, and cognitive skills, demonstrating the lasting impact of high-quality early learning experiences on school readiness and lifelong success.

"Today we had an incredible opportunity to visit multiple Best in Class locations along the I-94 corridor. What we witnessed were quality environments, incredible educators and engaged children," said Lt. Gov. Michelle Strinden. "The Best in Class investment is one that needs to continue as we strive to expand high-quality early childhood experiences across our great state."

A growing investment in North Dakota's youngest learners

Launched during the 2021-22 program year, Best in Class began with 24 early childhood programs, 28 classrooms and 371 children. Today, 64 programs, 94 classrooms and 1,239 children across the state are participating, representing a 260% increase in the number of children served over five years.

This growth has been supported by increased legislative funding dedicated to expanding access to quality early learning experiences, which allows more programs to participate and more families to benefit. Lawmakers approved additional funding for the 2025-26 program year to support new classrooms and sustain coaching, professional development and quality improvements statewide. Through Best in Class, participating programs receive funding, professional coaching and ongoing support to strengthen classroom environments, teaching practices and family engagement. Award amounts for the 2025-26 program year range from $15,000 to $120,000 per classroom, based on the number of children served and total operating hours.

"When we invest in those who care for children, we foster connection, resilience and hope in their earliest years - instilling healthy practices in North Dakota's future leaders," said HHS Commissioner Pat Traynor. "High-quality, play-based learning experiences help children build essential social, emotional and cognitive skills, ensuring they are ready to thrive in kindergarten and beyond."

Quality in action

Best in Class is grounded in more than 25 years of research showing that high-quality early childhood experiences have long-term benefits for children's development and future success. Teaching staff in participating classrooms are coached to implement play-based curriculum, authentic observation methods and individualized learning strategies that support growth across all domains of development.

Throughout the tour of the five Best in Class programs, leaders shared how the program's coaching and support emphasize nurturing the whole child - integrating health screenings, play-based learning and intentional kindergarten transition activities to support children's growth and development in every aspect, illustrating the power of quality early learning environments.

Looking ahead

Best in Class remains a cornerstone of North Dakota's early childhood strategy, supporting programs that provide at least 400 hours of high-quality learning over a 32-week period. The state's continued investment ensures more families have access to meaningful early learning opportunities close to home.

Additional background is available in the Aug. 26 news release announcing the program's fifth anniversary and increased funding. To learn more about Best in Class and view the list of participating programs, visit hhs.nd.gov/best-in-class.