National News Update

The Carnegie Corporation of New York has formed a task force to explore ways of ensuring that young children receive the nurturing and support they need.

The 27-member task force announced this month is being chaired by former Gov. Richard W. Riley of South Carolina and includes key professionals in education, health, business, psychology, child care, child development, and social policy as well as scholars, physicians, and researchers.

The panel will develop a report over the next two years to provide a "scientific framework and action agenda'' for meeting young children's needs, focusing on the period from...