Revised ECAS Framework

New ECAS framework

ECAS team conveners and backbone staff have developed a revised conceptual framework to guide our next phase.

The original ECAS framework was based on Lisbeth Schorr’s Pathways to Third Grade Success. Our revised framework has been informed by the BUILD Initiative’s model of a comprehensive and equitable early childhood system.

The revised framework

  • embraces a whole child, whole family systems approach,

  • better reflects the interconnectedness and interdependence of early childhood system elements,

  • facilitates a more flexible, adaptive, and open-ended approach to structuring teams; and

  • will hopefully help reduce silos and improve cross-pollination across efforts.

ECAS Framework 2026

ECAS Network Revised Framework

Our revised framework embraces a  whole child, whole family systems approach and has been informed by the BUILD Initiative’s model of a comprehensive and equitable early childhood system.

Next steps

Updating the ECAS Network structure based on the new framework

We are now working to update the ECAS Network structure to reflect this framework and our renewed emphasis on convening and collective impact. This includes:

  • Developing a dedicated steering committee to help inform the Network’s strategic direction, priorities, and team development;

  • Assessing current teams and workgroups for purpose, momentum, and alignment;

  • Consolidating, sunsetting, or adding teams as appropriate; and

  • Designing convenings that

    • effectively support the sharing of information about ongoing work, projects, and services;

    • facilitate strategic problem-solving;

    • encourage cross-pollination; and

    • strengthen coordination and collaboration across efforts.

We aim to complete the initial Network restructuring by the end of the third quarter of 2026. Our guiding principle is that form follows function, and funding follows form: we must first clarify the work ECAS is best positioned to do, then build out the structure and resources necessary to sustain it.

Juliane Richter