A child’s first years are ones of rapid and critical growth. During this time, young children benefit from supports like developmental check-ups, specialized services when delays are identified, and opportunities to grow in high-quality learning environments. Our latest Data Snapshot examines how these early childhood supports have reached Maine families in recent years. While there are encouraging signs among the trends, many areas still need improvement. Read the full Data Snapshot here: https://www.jtgfoundation.org/2025/03/data-snapshot-maine-supports-for-early-childhood-development/ (fb)

🙌 Exciting Addition to the Foundation Team We’re thrilled to welcome Jessica Drescher, PhD, to the John T. Gorman Foundation team as Senior Research Associate! Jessica will lead our efforts to evaluate the impact of our initiatives, using research and data to strengthen programs and improve outcomes for children and families across Maine. Having grown up in Penobscot County, Jessica brings both deep expertise and personal passion to her work. She has dedicated her career to expanding opportunities for children facing economic adversity, conducting research at Mathematica, Stanford University, and Harvard University, and publishing articles on topics including rural educational opportunity and child well-being. Jessica earned her bachelor’s degree from Colby College as a Mitchell Scholar and QuestBridge Scholar. She attained her Ed.M. in Education Policy and Management from Harvard University and her Ph.D. in Education Policy from Stanford University. Please join us in welcoming Jessica to the Foundation! We’re excited for the impact she’ll have in this important role. 👏 (fb)