Research Notes (Summer 2008)
Professional Development: The Landscape of Opportunity in Early Care and Education

In its position statement on professional development, NAEYC reinforces the prevailing wisdom of the field that early childhood staff should have ongoing training to improve their knowledge and practice. While state licensing standards interpret this recommendation differently, leaders in the field are in staunch agreement that professional development is an essential component of administering high-quality programs. Read more »

The Next Generation of Chicago Leaders
National-Louis University Chicago Campus (Map and Directions)

The Next Generation of Chicago Leaders project, funded by the McCormick Foundation, is an advanced leadership training program designed for seasoned professionals. Experienced directors and education coordinators of nonprofit and for-profit early childhood programs in Chicago are encouraged to apply. This unique opportunity will be limited to 18 individuals who have exhibited leadership potential and have demonstrated a strong commitment to improving the quality of care and education for young children.

This 10-month professional development experience provides a structured opportunity for participants to build and refine their coaching and mentoring skills, expand their knowledge about professional development resources, and develop individualized professional development plans for their teachers. All training costs, books and materials, on-site technical assistance by faculty, and lodging and registration for the Leadership Connections conference will be covered for participants selected to be part of this professional development initiative. For more information, download a brochure or contact Janis Jones at (312) 261-3088 or janis.jones@nl.edu.

Fall Management Institute: The Family-Friendly Director
National-Louis University Wheeling Campus Annex (Map and Directions)
October 24-25, 2008

This institute will help you examine your center's policies and practices through a "family-responsive" lens. Participants will look at the social, economic, and technological factors impacting families in contemporary society and explore ways to make centers a part of a community-wide support system for parents. Emphasis will be given to developing a family-responsive mission statement as well as marketing and enrollment literature that engages parents as true partners in their children's care and education. Guest presenters include Karen Stephens, author and director of the Illinois State University Lab School and Cynthia Stringfellow, director of the Family Focus Midwest Center for Learning. For more information, download a brochure or contact Debra Trude-Suter at (800) 443-5522, ext. 5056 or debra.trudesuter@nl.edu.

9th Annual Leadership Connections – SAVE THE DATES!
The Westin Chicago North Shore (Map and Directions)
May 14-16, 2009

Don't miss out on this highly acclaimed professional development opportunity for early childhood leaders. Three stimulating days of training, exhibits, networking, and fun. Meet and learn from national experts in leadership and program management. Look for registration materials this fall in your mailbox or visit our Web site (http://cecl.nl.edu). For more information including sponsorship opportunities, contact Donna Jonas at (800) 443-5522, ext. 5058 or donna.jonas@nl.edu.