This annual report details the 1998 activities of the SouthEastern Regional Vision for Education (SERVE), the agency designated by the U.S. Department of Education as the regional educational laboratory responsible for the development of national leadership and expertise in early childhood education. Sections of the report describe: several SERVE training programs for caregivers and educators; research and development--or Partner--sites for the development, study, and/or evaluation of effective programs and practices; incidences of collaboration between SERVE and conferences and programs around the country; and areas of technical assistance provided by SERVE. SERVE's presentations, publication, and products are also described. The report concludes with articles from SERVE staff describing development of a reading program and future plans for SERVE initiatives. The report's appendix lists Regional Educational Laboratory/Early Childhood contacts, and upcoming conferences. (HTH)