This document consists of seven policy issue papers developed by the Connecticut Early Childhood Education Council, an action-oriented coalition of statewide organizations concerned with early childhood education. Members include teachers, school administrators, children's librarians, child care providers, Head Start directors, State Department of Education early childhood consultants, and teacher educators. Definitions of several key terms and concepts are provided, including: developmental appropriateness, screening process, developmental screening tests, readiness tests, achievement tests, diagnostic tests, intelligence tests, delayed entry, retention, and extra-year program. The seven issues papers discuss: (1) readiness; (2) kindergarten entry age; (3) kindergarten entrance procedures; (4) developmental screening; (5) achievement testing; (6) retention; and (7) extra year programs. Included in each paper are discussions of current educational practices related to the issue, answers to questions to consider about the issue, recommendations for policy changes, strategies for bringing about change, and a list of sources. A total of 51 sources are provided. (GLR)