Early Learning Coalition of Brevard County Awarded Space Coast Health Foundation Grant, Funded by Orlando Health, to Expand Social-Emotional Learning in Preschool Classrooms

Melbourne, FL – The Early Learning Coalition of Brevard County (ELCB) is proud to announce it has been awarded more than $250,000 from the Space Coast Health Foundation to expand evidence-based social-emotional learning supports for preschool children across Brevard County.

The one-year initiative, Behavior Boosters: Empowering Preschoolers Through Social Learning, will strengthen the social-emotional well-being of young children by expanding implementation of the nationally recognized Pyramid Model framework in early learning programs throughout the county.

Funding for this initiative is provided by Orlando Health in partnership with Space Coast Health Foundation, the lead agency for the grant, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening the health, well-being and future success of children and families throughout Brevard County.

"Strong communities begin with strong foundations for children," said Sara Osborne, Senior Director of Community Benefit at Orlando Health. "Orlando Health is committed to supporting initiatives that expand educational opportunities and promote lifelong health and well-being. We're honored to help make this program possible and to invest in resources that will positively impact children, educators and families across Brevard County."

Through this initiative, ELC Brevard County will partner with approximately 40–50 early learning providers, supporting more than 244 educators with professional development, classroom coaching, instructional resources, and family engagement opportunities. The project is designed to help teachers build positive classroom environments, strengthen children's social-emotional skills, reduce challenging behaviors and promote school readiness.

The initiative will provide participating educators with:

• Professional development in the Pyramid Model and evidence-based social-emotional practices.
• Classroom coaching to support implementation and continuous improvement.
• Pyramid Model classroom resource kits.
• Conscious Discipline strategies to strengthen positive behavior supports.
• Family engagement activities and resources to extend learning beyond the classroom.

Research demonstrates that strong social-emotional skills contribute to improved academic performance, stronger relationships, and fewer behavioral challenges in the classroom. Throughout the project, the Early Learning Coalition of Brevard County will monitor implementation and outcomes, using data to evaluate progress and ensure participating providers receive the support needed to successfully implement sustainable practices.

"When children are given the tools to understand their emotions, build positive relationships and solve problems with confidence, they are better prepared to succeed in the classroom and throughout life. This investment allows us to equip educators with the resources they need to foster those essential skills every day," says Laura Gambino, CEO of the Early Learning Coalition of Brevard County.

About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a not-for-profit healthcare organization with a mission to improve the health and quality of life of the individuals and communities it serves. With a comprehensive network of hospitals, physician practices, outpatient centers and other healthcare services, Orlando Health provides a full range of care across Central Florida and beyond.