Program Overview

The Tennessee Department of Education’s (TDOE) Preschool Access for All Learning Network (Preschool AALN) is focused on increasing inclusive, least restrictive environment opportunities for children ages 3 to 5 (not in kindergarten), increasing access to developmentally appropriate environments, and ensuring high-quality instruction for all students. 

CLEE’s Role in Preschool AALN 

Systems Innovation & Improvement: CLEE partners with the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) to lead the Preschool Access for All Learning Network (P-AALN), a statewide initiative that advances inclusive preschool opportunities for young children with disabilities. Through district access cohorts, the statewide IEP Cohort, community partner trainings, and targeted technical assistance, we collaborate with TDOE to strengthen systems, build educator capacity, and improve outcomes for preschool children with disabilities. 

Professional Development: Professional learning is a cornerstone of P-AALN. Through access cohorts, IEP Cohort, community partner trainings, and targeted technical assistance, P-AALN builds the capacity of educators, district leaders, and early childhood partners to implement high-quality inclusive practices. Our Regional Access Coaches (RACs) provide coaching, facilitate leadership walkthroughs, develop and deliver professional learning, and support professional learning communities within the districts we serve. 

Event Planning and Management: Continuous professional development serves as a catalyst for improvement within Preschool AALN. CLEE provides all event planning and management within the network to ensure a seamless experience for all participants. 

Preschool AALN’s Impact

CLEE has worked with 60 Tennessee school districts throughout Preschool AALN Cohorts 3.0-5.0. Our goal is to increase inclusive environments within preschool programs and ensure high-quality instruction for all students, specifically students with disabilities. We believe that the work we do will show an increase in the educational environment (APR Indicator 6) and early childhood outcomes (APR Indicator 7).

In Summer 2024, we trained 142 AALN team members and 612 preschool teachers, with 98% reporting improved understanding and skills to create meaningfully inclusive classrooms for preschoolers with disabilities.

Preschool Access for ALL Learning Network (Preschool AALN) programs are currently available in the following Tennessee counties (counties in orange have programs; the darker the orange, the greater the number of programs in that county).