Data Snapshot Series on New Jersey’s Child Care Landscape

Christina Stephens, Ph.D. is an Assistant Research Professor at the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) at Rutgers University. Her research investigates early care and education (ECE) impacts on families and children among historically marginalized populations, including dual language learners. These interests are focused on (1) policies and factors that shape families’ equitable ECE access, and (2) elements of programs and classrooms that promote early development. Dr. Stephens’s work aims to translate into applied decision-making, policies, and practices across multiple levels of ECE systems that benefit children and families.

Dr. Milagros Nores is the Co-Director for Research and Research Professor at the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER). With a profound expertise in early childhood evaluation, informing data-driven policy and programming, cost and benefits of early interventions, evaluation design, equity, and English language learners, she has established herself as a leading researcher in the field of early care and education.

Allison Friedman-Krauss is an Associate Research Professor at NIEER where she is also the Associate Director for Policy Research and Director of the Infant and Toddler Policy Research Center. 

W. Steven (Steve) Barnett, PhD, is a Board of Governors Professor and the founder and Senior Co-Director of the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) at Rutgers University. Dr. Barnett’s work primarily focuses on public policies regarding early childhood education, child care, and child development.