Malden early learning programs receive state grants

"When children enter kindergarten behind, it is likely they will remain behind, creating an achievement gap that often grows greater over the years," said Early Education and Care Commissioner Sherri Killins, in the statement.

"Funding quality programs like these is key to providing children with critical skills such as oral language and literacy development, which are the basis for learning."

The $2.8 million was drawn from federal recovery act funding and was awarded competitively, according to the state.

The funds will be administered by a partnership between the commonwealth and Wheelock College, an area chapter of the United Way, and Cambridge-based group Community Advocates for Young Learners Institute.