Annual Conference & Expo

ABOUT THE EVENT

Our Annual Training Conference & Expo attracts hundreds of early care and learning professionals, parents and partners throughout the region and around the country. The conference is an incredible opportunity to connect with colleagues and experts in your own field and across disciplines. It is this unique gathering of participants which gives our conference its energy and wide-reach.

Join us to learn new strategies, expand your network, discover new resources, as well as explore quality initiatives and best practices. In addition to inspiring general sessions and breakthrough educational sessions, the event also features Pre-Conference Seminars, Public Policy Luncheon, Town Hall Meeting, Awards Gala, and our lively exhibitor marketplace showcasing the latest materials and products by industry leaders.

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Target Audience & Learning Objectives

With more than 60 educational sessions, have been uniquely designed to meet the diverse interests and needs of the Head Start community.  Participants will not only will deepen their knowledge base but also expand their awareness of key frameworks, quality initiatives and best practices in the areas of early care and development as well as family engagement.

BOARD & POLICY MEMBERS: Organizations recognize the importance of established and well- functioning governance bodies that share the responsibility for the delivery of high-quality services to children and families. Participants will expand their understanding of program governance as well as related elements of program design and management.

COMMUNITY PARTNERS:  The collaboration between Head Start, families, and community agencies builds positive relationships and also  supports parent progress toward their goals for themselves and their children. Community partners provide culturally and linguistically responsive services and helpful resources.  Participants will be exposed to strategies to advance their work from parent educational advancement to economic mobility to other aspects of family well-being.

ADMINISTRATORS & MANAGERS: Organizations are experiencing great opportunities for reinvention or growth but many are also vulnerable to considerable risk. The health of the organization depends on its ability to effectively balance its mission, capital structure, and organizational capacity. Participants will expand their understanding and application of management principles, quality initiatives and best practices.

CENTER-BASED & HOME-BASED TEAMS: From social-emotional and cognitive skills to physical well-being and parent involvement, programs support and nurture all areas of a young child’s development and learning through coordinated and connected strategies. Participants will expand their understanding and application of prevention and intervention strategies, best practices and quality initiatives.

PARENTS & FAMILIES: Parents are young children’s first and most important teachers, and their socialization is most influenced by their family. Programs engage parents and families as equal partners to support children's ongoing development and learning. Participants will explore strategies and resources to strengthen the connection between family engagement, healthy development, and school readiness.