The number of children that are spending out-of-school time unsupervised is increasing. There is a great need for high-quality after-school programs. In addition to providing a safe place for children, a high-quality before-school, after-school, or summer program can expanded learning opportunities. SERVE provides research and professional development opportunities to assist with the development of new programs and the enhancement of existing programs.

English Language Learners (ELLs)

Shifts in the population dynamics of the United States are a part of our culture and history. Such shifts impact many facets of our lives, including public education.

The growth in the proportion of English language learners (ELLs) causes educators to ask how best to meet the needs of increasing diverse groups of students, particularly in regions of the country with little recent exposure to such linguistic diversity. Of special relevance to SERVE states are the discussions of ELL instructional models in place in the SERVE region, along with key issues that influence ELL policies and reforms in the region.

Homeless Education

The National Center for Homeless Education at SERVE provides research, resources, and information enabling communities to address the educational needs of children and youth experiencing homelessness. The Center serves as a clearinghouse of information for people seeking to remove or overcome educational barriers and to improve educational opportunities and outcomes for children and youth experiencing homelessness.

Migrant Education

The transitions of migrant families pose a unique challenge for students. SERVE's Migrant Education Even Start Family Literacy program serves families in Immokalee, Ruskin, and Quincy, Florida, by offering adult education, early childhood education, and other programs for parents. During the summer months, when families migrate to work the harvest in North Florida, the program, in conjunction with other service organizations in the Florida Panhandle, provides family-based activities to ensure year-round programming.

School Readiness

School success starts early—long before children enter school. This year approximately three million children will enter kindergarten. There is no one skill or ability that children need in order to do well in school. Whether or not children are prepared to be successful in school depends on a multitude of factors that are closely related and intertwined. SERVE provides research and professional development opportunities to assist students with being prepared to transition to school.