MSDE-2024-2025-AnnualReport-FA-SPRD - Flipbook - Page 16
PILLAR 1
Early Childhood Education
Judy Center Early Learning Hubs and Patricia H. Kirwan
Family Support Services (Patty Centers)
Pillar 1 of the Blueprint includes programs to expand publicly funded Prekindergarten, increase
student readiness for kindergarten, and expand family supports.
Judy Center Early Learning Hubs and Patricia H. Kirwan Family Support Services (Patty Centers) play key roles in
supporting families and preparing young children for school success.
Judy Centers utilize a strengths-based, multi-generational approach to serve children through age 昀椀ve and
their families, offering comprehensive educational and family support services. There are currently 93 Judy
Centers in Title I and high-needs schools. In FY 2024, Judy Centers served more than 14,750 families and
17,780 children, providing critical services such as case management, parent training, playgroups, and school
readiness activities. These efforts have shown positive impacts on family success, with over 36,000 referrals to
community partners.
Patty Centers, operating in 24 locations statewide, serve expectant parents and families with children up to
age four, focusing on parenting skills, child development, and healthy relationships. Managed by the Maryland
Family Network (MFN) with MSDE oversight, Patty Centers have added seven new centers since FY21, with the
goal of growing by an additional 20 locations by 2029. In FY24, Patty Centers provided vital services to more
than 571 families and nearly 710 children.
14
Continuing the Work of the Blueprint
