Introduction
Early childhood education plays a crucial role in shaping the future of our society. The experiences and learning opportunities provided to children in their earliest years have a profound impact on their cognitive, social, and emotional development. This article highlights 100 individuals who are at the forefront of early childhood education, driving innovation, research, and policy changes that are transforming the field.
These influencers come from diverse backgrounds – educators, researchers, policymakers, advocates, and thought leaders – all united by their passion for improving the lives of young children through education. From pioneering new teaching methodologies to advocating for policy changes, these individuals are making significant contributions to the field of early childhood education.
Our selection criteria for this list include:
- Impact on early childhood education practice and policy
- Innovative contributions to teaching and learning for young children
- Influence on research and understanding of early childhood development
- Advocacy for quality early childhood education and care
- Ability to drive change and inspire others in the field
It’s important to note that influence in early childhood education can manifest in various ways, from grassroots classroom innovation to high-level policy changes. This list attempts to capture a broad spectrum of influence across different sectors and geographical regions.
Let’s explore the individuals who are shaping the future of early childhood education in 2025.
The List
1. Carol Dweck – Professor of Psychology, Stanford University
Carol Dweck’s work on growth mindset continues to revolutionize how educators approach teaching and learning in early childhood settings. Her research on the power of beliefs and how they shape learning outcomes has influenced teaching practices worldwide.
2. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek – Professor of Psychology, Temple University
Kathy Hirsh-Pasek’s research on playful learning and language development has shaped how educators approach early childhood education. Her work on the importance of play in learning continues to influence curriculum design and teaching practices.
3. Jack P. Shonkoff – Director, Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University
Dr. Shonkoff’s work on the science of early childhood development has been instrumental in shaping policies and practices in early education. His advocacy for evidence-based interventions has influenced how governments and organizations approach early childhood programs.
4. Iram Siraj – Professor of Child Development and Education, Oxford University
Professor Siraj’s research on effective early years pedagogy and the importance of high-quality early childhood education has influenced policy and practice globally. Her work on professional development for early childhood educators has been particularly impactful.
5. Linda Darling-Hammond – President and CEO, Learning Policy Institute
Linda Darling-Hammond’s research and policy work continue to shape teacher education and school reform efforts, including in early childhood education. Her advocacy for equitable and empowering education practices has influenced policy at both state and national levels.
6. Sugata Mitra – Professor of Educational Technology
Sugata Mitra’s “Hole in the Wall” experiments and work on self-organized learning environments continue to influence approaches to technology in early education, especially in developing countries.
7. Alison Gopnik – Professor of Psychology and Philosophy, UC Berkeley
Alison Gopnik’s research on cognitive development in young children has revolutionized our understanding of how children learn. Her work on the importance of play and exploration in early learning continues to influence educational practices.
8. Diane Ravitch – Education Historian and Policy Analyst
Diane Ravitch’s critiques of education reform and standardized testing continue to influence debates about early childhood education policy. Her advocacy for developmentally appropriate practices in early education has shaped resistance to academic pushdown in many states.
9. Gerry Brooks – Elementary School Principal and Educational Humorist
Gerry Brooks’ humorous videos about life in elementary schools have made him a beloved figure among educators. His ability to address serious issues in education with humor has made him an influential voice in the field.
10. Deborah Stipek – Professor of Education, Stanford University
Deborah Stipek’s research on early childhood education, particularly her work on motivation and academic achievement, has significantly influenced teaching practices. Her advocacy for play-based learning in early childhood settings has been particularly impactful.
11. Angela Duckworth – Founder and CEO, Character Lab
Angela Duckworth’s research on grit and character development has influenced how early childhood educators approach non-cognitive skills. Character Lab’s tools for educators have become widely adopted in early childhood settings.
12. Wendy Kopp – CEO and Co-founder, Teach For All
Wendy Kopp’s global network of education leaders has been instrumental in bringing innovative practices to early childhood classrooms worldwide. Teach For All’s impact on education policy and practice has grown significantly.
13. Loris Malaguzzi – Founder of the Reggio Emilia Approach (Posthumous Influence)
Although Malaguzzi passed away in 1994, his Reggio Emilia approach continues to be highly influential in early childhood education. The child-centered, experiential learning approach he developed is implemented in preschools worldwide.
14. Sir Ken Robinson – Author and Education Advisor (Posthumous Influence)
Sir Ken Robinson’s advocacy for creativity in education continues to shape curriculum design and educational philosophy in early childhood settings. His work has influenced a shift towards more holistic and arts-integrated education models.
15. Vicki Davis – Teacher and Creator, Cool Cat Teacher Blog
Vicki Davis’ practical insights into classroom technology use have made her a trusted voice for early childhood educators worldwide. Her podcast and blog continue to bridge the gap between edtech innovation and classroom implementation.
16. Michael Horn – Co-founder, Clayton Christensen Institute
Michael Horn’s work on disruptive innovation in education has shaped how many view the role of technology in early learning. His insights continue to influence edtech strategy and policy in early childhood education.
17. Kimberly Bryant – Founder and CEO, Black Girls Code
Kimberly Bryant’s work in promoting diversity in tech education has inspired numerous initiatives for young children. Black Girls Code’s expansion and partnerships have created new opportunities for underrepresented groups in early STEM education.
18. Audrey Watters – Writer and Scholar
Audrey Watters’ critical analysis of edtech trends and policies has shaped important conversations about the role of technology in early childhood education. Her work challenges the industry to consider the broader implications of educational technology for young children.
19. Tom Vander Ark – CEO, Getting Smart
Tom Vander Ark’s work in promoting innovation in K-12 education has influenced early learning models globally. His advocacy for personalized and project-based learning has shaped educational practices in numerous early childhood settings.
20. Paul Reville – Professor, Harvard Graduate School of Education
Paul Reville’s work on the “new education commonwealth” has influenced thinking about comprehensive child development and community engagement in early education. His advocacy for wraparound services in early childhood programs has gained traction in urban education policy.
21. Yong Zhao – Foundation Distinguished Professor, University of Kansas
Yong Zhao’s research on globalization and education has influenced international early childhood education policies. His advocacy for creativity and entrepreneurship in education has shaped curriculum development in several countries.
22. Pasi Sahlberg – Professor of Education Policy, University of New South Wales
Pasi Sahlberg’s insights into Finnish education continue to influence global early childhood education reform efforts. His advocacy for play-based learning and minimal standardized testing in early years has shaped policies worldwide.
23. Erin Gruwell – Founder, Freedom Writers Foundation
Erin Gruwell’s work with at-risk students has inspired educators globally. The Freedom Writers methodology has been adapted for early childhood settings, promoting empathy and social-emotional learning from an early age.
24. Freeman Hrabowski – President, University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Freeman Hrabowski’s leadership in promoting diversity in STEM education has influenced early childhood STEM initiatives nationwide. His advocacy for early intervention in STEM education has shaped programs across the country.
25. Jaime Casap – Education Evangelist
Jaime Casap’s work in promoting digital equity and his insights into the future of work have influenced how early childhood educators approach technology integration and digital literacy.
26. Manuela Veloso – Head of AI Research, J.P. Morgan
While her current role is in finance, Manuela Veloso’s pioneering work in AI and robotics continues to influence educational robotics and AI in early childhood education. Her research is shaping how we think about human-AI collaboration in early learning environments.
27. Caitlin Dooley – Deputy Superintendent, Georgia Department of Education
Caitlin Dooley’s work in integrating technology into state education policy is influencing how schools approach digital learning in early childhood settings. Her leadership is shaping the future of early childhood education at a systemic level.
28. Megan Mead – Chief Strategy Officer, Digital Promise
Megan Mead’s work with Digital Promise is bridging research, practice, and innovation in early childhood education. Her focus on leveraging technology to close opportunity gaps is influencing educational policy and practice in early years settings.
29. Deena Pierott – Founder and Executive Director, iUrban Teen
Deena Pierott’s work with iUrban Teen is bringing STEM education to underrepresented youth. Her innovative programs are changing the face of technology education and inspiring the next generation of diverse tech leaders, starting from early childhood.
30. Katelyn Donnelly – Founder and Managing Director, Avalanche VC
Katelyn Donnelly’s work in edtech investment through Avalanche VC is funding innovative solutions to global early childhood education challenges. Her focus on impact-driven investments is shaping the future of the industry.
31. Angie McAllister – Senior Vice President of Data Science, Renaissance Learning
Angie McAllister’s work in applying data science to education is revolutionizing how we measure and support early learning. Her leadership is influencing the development of adaptive learning technologies for young children.
32. Kimberly Scott – Founder and Executive Director, CompuGirls
Kimberly Scott’s work with CompuGirls is empowering girls of color through technology from an early age. Her innovative approach to culturally responsive computing education is changing the landscape of diversity in tech, starting in early childhood.
33. Maryanne Wolf – Director, Center for Dyslexia, Diverse Learners, and Social Justice at UCLA
Maryanne Wolf’s research on the reading brain in the digital age is influencing how edtech companies design literacy tools for young children. Her work is shaping our understanding of how technology affects cognitive development in early years.
34. Elissa Salas – CEO, College Track
Elissa Salas’ leadership of College Track is leveraging technology to support underrepresented students on their journey to and through college. Her work is influencing how we approach college readiness, starting from early childhood.
35. Kathy Benemann – CEO, Discovery Education
Kathy Benemann’s leadership at Discovery Education is shaping how digital content is integrated into early childhood classrooms worldwide. Her focus on providing high-quality, standards-aligned resources is influencing curriculum development and instructional practices in early years settings.
36. Sanna Lukander – CEO, Fun Academy
Sanna Lukander’s work with Fun Academy is revolutionizing early childhood education through play-based learning. Her innovative approach to combining physical and digital play is influencing how we think about preschool education.
37. Erin Mote – Co-founder and Executive Director, InnovateEDU
Erin Mote’s work with InnovateEDU is driving innovation in early childhood education through technology. Her focus on interoperability and data standards is shaping how edtech companies approach product development for young learners.
38. Deborah Quazzo – Managing Partner, GSV Ventures
Deborah Quazzo’s work in edtech investment through GSV Ventures has been instrumental in funding and scaling innovative early childhood educational technologies. Her insights into the future of learning have influenced the direction of the industry.
39. Jessie Woolley-Wilson – President and CEO, DreamBox Learning
Jessie Woolley-Wilson’s continued innovation in adaptive learning technology has kept DreamBox at the forefront of personalized math education for young children.
40. Jennifer Carolan – Co-founder and General Partner, Reach Capital
Jennifer Carolan’s investments in innovative edtech startups continue to shape the future of early childhood education, with a particular focus on equity and access.
41. Betsy Corcoran – Co-founder and CEO, EdSurge
Betsy Corcoran’s leadership of EdSurge continues to provide crucial information and analysis for the early childhood education industry.
42. Reshma Saujani – Founder, Girls Who Code
Reshma Saujani’s ongoing work in expanding coding education for girls continues to address gender disparities in STEM fields, starting from early childhood.
43. Esther Wojcicki – Educator and Journalist
Esther Wojcicki’s TRICK approach continues to influence how early childhood education platforms design for student engagement and autonomy.
44. Rose Luckin – Professor of Learner Centred Design, UCL Knowledge Lab
Rose Luckin’s research on AI in education continues to shape the development of AI-powered educational tools and systems for early learners.
45. Barbara Kurshan – Senior Fellow and Innovation Advisor, University of Pennsylvania GSE
Barbara Kurshan’s work at the intersection of education, technology, and entrepreneurship continues to influence how universities approach innovation in early childhood education.
46. Candace Thille – Director of Learning Science, Amazon
Candace Thille’s work at the intersection of learning science and technology continues to shape the future of early childhood learning.
47. Shalini Kantayya – Filmmaker and Activist
Shalini Kantayya’s documentaries continue to spark important conversations about AI ethics in education, influencing how we think about the societal implications of edtech for young children.
48. Esther Care – Senior Fellow, Brookings Institution
Esther Care’s research on 21st-century skills assessment continues to influence how early childhood educators approach skills measurement and development.
49. Greta Thunberg – Climate Activist and Education Advocate
While not directly involved in early childhood education, Greta Thunberg’s global climate movement has significantly influenced environmental education for young children and the use of technology for global youth activism.
50. Malala Yousafzai – Education Activist and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate
Malala Yousafzai’s continued advocacy for girls’ education worldwide has inspired numerous early childhood education initiatives focused on expanding access to education in developing countries.
51. Melinda French Gates – Co-chair, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Melinda French Gates’ ongoing work with the Gates Foundation continues to shape global early childhood education policy and fund innovative edtech solutions for underserved communities.
52. Michelle Obama – Former First Lady of the United States
Michelle Obama’s continued advocacy for education, particularly for girls and underserved communities, influences early childhood education initiatives focused on expanding educational access and opportunities.
53. Mark Leppard MBE – Education Leader
Mark Leppard’s leadership in international education continues to influence global early childhood educational practices and policies.
54. Kai Vacher – Education Innovator
Kai Vacher’s work in educational leadership and innovation continues to shape international early childhood education practices.
55. Matthew Wemyss – Education Technology Specialist
Matthew Wemyss’ expertise in educational technology integration continues to influence how early childhood education centers adopt and implement new technologies.
56. Alex Gray – Education Consultant
Alex Gray’s work in education consulting continues to shape early childhood education improvement strategies globally.
57. Mark Anderson FCCT – Education Technology Advisor
Mark Anderson’s insights into educational technology continue to guide early childhood education centers in effective tech integration.
58. Sam Ashley-Welbeck – Education Leader
Sam Ashley-Welbeck’s leadership in education continues to influence diversity and inclusion practices in early childhood education settings.
59. Katrina Daniels-Samasa – Education Innovator
Katrina Daniels-Samasa’s work in educational innovation continues to shape teaching practices and school culture in early childhood education.
60. Angie Browne – Education Leader
Angie Browne’s leadership in education continues to influence early childhood education improvement strategies and teacher development.
61. Nikki McLeary – Education Technology Specialist
Nikki McLeary’s expertise in educational technology continues to guide early childhood education centers in effective digital learning strategies.
62. Olly Lewis – Education Innovator
Olly Lewis’ work in educational innovation continues to shape teaching practices and learning environments in early childhood education.
63. Jan Fish – Professor Emerita, California State University, Northridge
Jan Fish’s ongoing work in early childhood education, particularly her leadership in the Partnerships for Education, Articulation, and Coordination through Higher Education (PEACH) collaborative, continues to shape the field. Her focus on collaborative consultation and systems change in ECE has wide-reaching impacts.
64. Denise Kennedy – Chair, Early Childhood Studies Department, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
Denise Kennedy’s leadership in early childhood education, particularly her work on integrating technology and cultural responsiveness in ECE curricula, continues to influence the field. Her research on family engagement in early education has shaped practices nationwide.
65. Nancy Hurlbut – Emeritus Professor, Early Childhood Studies, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
Nancy Hurlbut’s ongoing work in early childhood education, particularly her focus on life-span human development and its applications in ECE, continues to shape the field. Her advocacy for evidence-based practices in early education has influenced policy and practice.
66. La Tanga Hardy – Faculty Member and Director of Child Development Center, Los Angeles Trade-Technical College
La Tanga Hardy’s work in early childhood education, particularly her focus on practical, hands-on learning experiences for ECE students, continues to influence the field. Her leadership in connecting theory to practice has shaped ECE programs across the country.
67. Diana Morelen – Associate Professor, Clinical Child Psychology, East Tennessee State University
Diana Morelen’s work in perinatal and infant mental health, particularly her focus on breaking the intergenerational transmission of trauma, continues to influence early childhood education practices. Her integration of trauma-informed, relationship-based approaches has shaped interventions in ECE settings.
68. Sarah Barclay Hoffman – Early Childhood Mental Health Specialist
Sarah Barclay Hoffman’s work in early childhood mental health, particularly her focus on infant and early childhood mental health consultation, continues to shape practices in ECE settings. Her advocacy for relationship-based approaches has influenced policy and practice in early intervention.
69. Bryce Covert – Journalist and Author
Bryce Covert’s reporting on early childhood education issues, particularly around funding, policy, and workforce challenges, continues to shape public understanding and policy debates in the field.
70. Beth Hawkins – Education Journalist
Beth Hawkins’ reporting on early childhood education policy and practice, particularly around issues of equity and inclusion, continues to influence public discourse and policy decisions in the field.
71. Mark Swartz – Early Childhood Education Writer
Mark Swartz’s work in communicating complex early childhood education issues to a broad audience continues to shape public understanding and advocacy efforts in the field.
72. Conor P. Williams – Fellow, The Century Foundation
Conor Williams’ research and writing on early childhood education policy, particularly around issues of equity and access, continue to influence policy debates and decisions in the field.
73. Katie Kurutz – Communications Specialist, First 5 LA
Katie Kurutz’s work in communicating the importance of early childhood education and development continues to shape public understanding and support for ECE initiatives.
74. Sheryl Cooper – Early Childhood Educator and Influencer
Sheryl Cooper’s practical insights into teaching toddlers and preschoolers, shared through her popular Instagram account, continue to influence classroom practices for early childhood educators worldwide.
75. Amy Powell – Founder, Learning Through Play
Amy Powell’s work in promoting play-based learning in early childhood education, through her blog and educational resources, continues to shape teaching practices and curriculum design.
76. Monica Burns – Founder, Class Tech Tips
Monica Burns’ work in integrating technology into early childhood classrooms continues to influence how educators approach edtech in ECE settings. Her practical tips and resources have become invaluable for many early childhood educators.
77. Chris Woods – Host, The STEM Everyday Podcast
Chris Woods’ podcast continues to provide practical help for early childhood educators to build a STEM culture in their classrooms and communities. His interviews with experts and innovators have shaped STEM education practices in ECE settings.
78. Hank Green – Creator, SciShow Kids
Hank Green’s work in creating engaging science content for young children through SciShow Kids continues to shape how early childhood educators approach STEM education. His videos have become a valuable resource in many ECE classrooms.
79. Jackie Mader – Journalist, The Hechinger Report
Jackie Mader’s reporting on early childhood education issues, particularly around Head Start and early learning policies, continues to shape public understanding and policy debates in the field.
80. Marisa Busch – Senior Editor, Early Learning Nation
Marisa Busch’s work in curating and editing content about early childhood education continues to shape the conversation around ECE issues and innovations.
81. Rick Hess – Director of Education Policy Studies, American Enterprise Institute
Rick Hess’ analysis of education policy, including early childhood education, continues to influence policy debates and decisions in the field. His annual RHSU Edu-Scholar Public Influence Rankings highlight key influencers in education research.
82. Emily Oster – Professor of Economics, Brown University
Emily Oster’s data-driven approach to parenting and early childhood development, as outlined in her popular books, continues to influence how parents and educators approach early learning and child-rearing.
83. Gholdy Muhammad – Associate Professor of Language and Literacy, Georgia State University
Gholdy Muhammad’s work on culturally and historically responsive literacy instruction has significant implications for early childhood education. Her framework for equity-centered literacy instruction is shaping curriculum design in ECE settings.
84. John McWhorter – Associate Professor of English and Comparative Literature, Columbia University
John McWhorter’s work on language acquisition and development continues to influence how early childhood educators approach language instruction, particularly for multilingual learners.
85. David Yeager – Associate Professor of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin
David Yeager’s research on adolescent development, particularly his work on growth mindset, has implications for early childhood education. His insights are shaping how educators approach motivation and resilience in young learners.
86. Shaun Harper – Provost Professor of Education and Business, University of Southern California
Shaun Harper’s work on racial equity in education, while primarily focused on higher education, has important implications for early childhood education. His research is influencing how ECE programs approach diversity and inclusion.
87. Pedro Noguera – Dean, USC Rossier School of Education
Pedro Noguera’s work on educational equity and school reform has significant implications for early childhood education. His research on the role of social and economic factors in educational outcomes is shaping policy approaches to ECE.
88. Jo Boaler – Professor of Education, Stanford University
Jo Boaler’s work on mathematics education, particularly her advocacy for growth mindset approaches in math, has implications for early childhood education. Her research is influencing how early math skills are taught in ECE settings.
89. Roberta Michnick Golinkoff – Unidel H. Rodney Sharp Professor of Education, University of Delaware
Roberta Golinkoff’s research on language development, play, and early spatial skills continues to shape our understanding of early childhood learning. Her work influences both policy and practice in ECE settings.
90. Kathryn Hirsh-Pasek – Professor of Psychology, Temple University
Kathryn Hirsh-Pasek’s research on language development, play, and learning sciences continues to influence early childhood education practices. Her work on playful learning has shaped curriculum design in many ECE programs.
91. Susan Neuman – Professor of Childhood and Literacy Education, New York University
Susan Neuman’s work on early literacy development, particularly in low-income communities, continues to shape policy and practice in early childhood education. Her research on the importance of access to print materials has influenced many literacy initiatives.
92. Douglas Clements – Distinguished University Professor, University of Denver
Douglas Clements’ research on early mathematics education continues to influence how math is taught in early childhood settings. His work on learning trajectories in mathematics has shaped curriculum development in ECE.
93. Julie Sarama – Kennedy Endowed Chair in Innovative Learning Technologies, University of Denver
Julie Sarama’s work on early mathematics education, particularly her research on using technology to support math learning, continues to influence practices in early childhood education.
94. Deborah Phillips – Professor of Psychology, Georgetown University
Deborah Phillips’ research on child development and early childhood education policy continues to shape debates around universal pre-K and other ECE initiatives. Her work on the effects of early childhood education has influenced policy decisions at state and national levels.
95. Walter Gilliam – Professor of Child Psychiatry and Psychology, Yale University
Walter Gilliam’s research on preschool expulsion and implicit bias in early childhood education continues to influence policy and practice. His work has led to increased awareness of disciplinary disparities in ECE settings.
96. Stephanie Jones – Gerald S. Lesser Professor in Early Childhood Development, Harvard Graduate School of Education
Stephanie Jones’ work on social-emotional learning in early childhood continues to shape how educators approach child development. Her research on executive function skills has influenced curriculum design in many ECE programs.
97. Deborah Stipek – Judy Koch Professor of Education, Stanford University
Deborah Stipek’s research on early childhood education, particularly her work on motivation and academic achievement, continues to influence teaching practices in ECE settings. Her advocacy for developmentally appropriate practices has shaped policy debates in early education.
98. Ruby Takanishi – Senior Research Fellow, New America Foundation
Ruby Takanishi’s work on early childhood education policy, particularly her advocacy for aligning pre-K to 3rd grade education, continues to influence policy discussions and decisions in the field.
99. Sharon Lynn Kagan – Virginia and Leonard Marx Professor of Early Childhood and Family Policy, Teachers College, Columbia University
Sharon Lynn Kagan’s work on early childhood education policy and systems continues to shape how countries approach ECE. Her research on the economics of early childhood investment has influenced policy decisions worldwide.
100. James J. Heckman – Nobel Laureate and Henry Schultz Distinguished Service Professor of Economics, University of Chicago
James Heckman’s research on the economics of human development continues to provide a powerful argument for investment in early childhood education. His work on the long-term benefits of quality ECE programs has influenced policy decisions at the highest levels.
Conclusion
The individuals featured in this list represent the diverse and dynamic nature of the early childhood education sector. From classroom teachers to researchers, policymakers to tech innovators, each has made significant contributions to how we understand and implement early childhood education in the 21st century.
As we look to the future, several key trends emerge from the work of these influencers:
- Personalization and Adaptive Learning: Many of the leaders on this list are focused on using AI and data analytics to create truly personalized learning experiences for young children.
- Accessibility and Equity: There’s a strong emphasis on making quality early childhood education accessible to all, regardless of geographic or economic barriers.
- Play-Based and Experiential Learning: Many influencers advocate for the importance of play and hands-on experiences in early learning, pushing back against overly academic approaches in early childhood.
- Social-Emotional Learning: There’s an increased focus on developing social-emotional skills in early childhood, recognizing their importance for long-term success.
- STEM in Early Childhood: Many leaders are working to introduce STEM concepts in developmentally appropriate ways in early childhood settings.
- Cultural Responsiveness: There’s a growing emphasis on culturally responsive teaching practices in early childhood education, recognizing the diverse backgrounds of young learners.
- Technology Integration: While there’s debate about the appropriate use of technology with young children, many influencers are exploring how to effectively integrate tech tools in early learning environments.
- Workforce Development: Several leaders are focusing on improving training and support for early childhood educators, recognizing the critical role they play.
- Policy Advocacy: Many influencers are actively involved in shaping policy at local, national, and international levels to support quality early childhood education.
- Interdisciplinary Approaches: There’s a trend towards breaking down silos between different areas of child development, recognizing the interconnected nature of early learning.
As the field of early childhood education continues to evolve, the individuals on this list are at the forefront
