Early Childhood Education (ECE) programs are an important investment in Ohio's youngest learners. Ohio has worked to increase the availability of high-quality early learning programs for preschool children by providing the Early Childhood Education grants. Funded programs deliver high-quality, comprehensive learning environments focused on healthy development and intellectual, social and emotional success. Research is clear: Children who participate in high-quality early learning programs begin school better prepared for educational success. This FY 2016 (July 1, 2015 - June 30, 2016), annual report has been published to meet the requirements of Section 263.20 of Ohio House Bill 64 (C) which says: "The Department shall provide an annual report to the Governor, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the President of the Senate and post the report to the Department's web site, regarding early childhood education programs operated under this section and the early learning program standards." The report summarizes and provides an overview of finances, and activities of Ohio's early education programs in the areas of teacher credentials and professional development, child assessments, Step up to Quality, and program support. [For the 2015 edition of this report, see ED600416.]