Congratulations to Associate Professor of Human Development and Family Sciences Bridget Hatfield (PI), and Research Associate Hillary Lewis (co-PI) who will partner as implementation science partners in a new statewide initiative to support Active Playful Learning in early childhood classrooms.

Led by the nonprofit Teaching Preschool Partners and supported by the LEGO Foundation, the project brings a nationally recognized, research-backed approach to elementary school classrooms in the Parkrose and Tigard-Tualatin school districts beginning in fall 2025. Oregon joins several other states in this multi-year effort to promote hands-on, engaging learning that builds foundational academic and life skills in young children.

The initiative integrates guided play with academic content and is part of a national research collaboration that includes Temple University, the University of Virginia and other top institutions. OSU’s role will include supporting implementation, collecting and analyzing data, and helping to measure growth in teaching practices and student outcomes.

Way to go, Bridget and Hillary, for supporting playful learning and stronger starts for Oregon’s children!