As part of the PEG program, EEC has invested in a rigorous external evaluation. The PEG evaluation is being conducted by Abt Associates Inc. in partnership with University of Massachusetts Boston. The multi-year evaluation has four components: an implementation study of the provision of quality elements in PEG classrooms, a longitudinal study of outcomes for PEG educators, children and families, an impact study of effects of PEG on children and families, and a cost study. The first year of the PEG evaluation (2015-16) focused on the implementation of PEG. The impact study and longitudinal study will begin in the second year of PEG (2016-17) and the cost study will analyze costs over the first three years of PEG. (author abstract)