Applying Systems Evaluation to Federal Human Service & Education Initiatives: Insights from the Federal Preschool Development Grant Evaluations

Abstract Information: Nearly a decade on, the Preschool Development Grant Birth Through Five (PDG B-5) initiative has expanded its evaluation scope to include systemic efforts alongside grant activities. This session, with a discussant from the PDG B-5 grant office within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, who will delve into the rationale for embedding evaluation within the grant framework, emphasizing its critical role in shaping state-wide early childhood programs and in fostering an environment of continuous improvement and innovation. Evaluation experts will share insights from their journey through complex system evaluations, illustrating the application of diverse methodologies that have informed and transformed state initiatives. Their presentations will showcase the integration of cutting-edge evaluation techniques and the adaptation of traditional methods to address the unique challenges of systemic evaluation. In tandem, state agency grant administrators will outline how these evaluations have acted as catalysts for systemic change, enhancing services for children and families, and driving policy reform and strategic planning at the state level. Central to our discussion is the grant's commitment to supporting vulnerable populations. We will explore innovative strategies states have employed to engage families, indigenous communities, and wider societal groups, ensuring their voices shape and inform evaluation processes. This inclusive approach not only aligns with the conference's theme of amplifying diverse perspectives but also demonstrates the power of participatory evaluation in driving meaningful change. Furthermore, this session will critically examine the intersection between evaluation theory and practice, highlighting both synergies and gaps encountered in implementing complex evaluations within and across government agencies. By sharing these experiences, we aim to inspire a deeper engagement with systems evaluation, encouraging evaluators to apply current theories pragmatically in complex, cross-agency initiatives. This dialogue is not just about sharing experiences; it's an invitation to the evaluation community to embrace the complexities of system evaluations, encouraging innovation, inclusivity, and a reflective practice that bridges theory and real-world application. The session promises to be a dynamic exchange of ideas, fostering a community of practice that is eager to tackle the challenges of modern evaluation and committed to advancing the field through collaborative learning and shared knowledge.