Why focus on equity in program evaluation?
Program evaluations can create growth, further values, and remove barriers.
Intentional care must be taken to ensure that evaluative work does not continue or exacerbate existing inequities.
How can equity in program evaluations impact children and families in Nebraska?
The early childhood care and education system reaches Nebraska children through various programs and services.
This extensive system can better support families when more program evaluations integrate equity-driven aspects, such as family voice, cultural relevance, positionality, and feedback loops.
Who needs to focus on equity?
Every one of us - program staff, evaluators, funders, families, and state leadership - needs to work to advance equity.
We all bring our worldviews, experiences, and assumptions to our work. Defining and working towards equity involves looking inward through lifelong learning and critical self-reflection.
How do we know progress has been made toward equity?
Progress is defined by those who are experiencing inequities.
We know progress has been made when families, children, and communities report an increase in what they define as success.