The Director's Link (Summer 2008)
Crossing the Generational Divide

[Cover story by Patricia Scallan Berl] On a daily basis, directors must confront diverse voices and views, each underscoring the distinct motivations, values, and ambitions of their teachers. On key element driving reoccurring differences among the mindsets of teachers is intergenerational conflict. On the job, these generational distinctions are becoming increasingly complex as multi-generation gaps emerge. with three or more generations defining roles and expectations, each vying for positions in a work world of shrinking upward opportunity. Experience and loyalty to an employer, once the principal factors for advancement, are quickly being replaced by merit, education, and advancing technological skills of younger workers. Read more »

Taking Charge of Change – OUR 16TH YEAR!
National-Louis University Wheeling Campus Annex (Map and Directions)
Summer Institute: August 4-9, 2008

Join the ranks of over 400 directors in Illinois who have taken part in this extraordinary professional development experience. Taking Charge of Change is guaranteed to transform how you think about your role as an early childhood leader. Training begins with a six-day residential institute August 4-9, 2008 at the McCormick Tribune Center for Early Childhood Leadership in Wheeling. Topics focus on individual and organizational change and the director's role as change agent. A comprehensive model for improving the quality of early childhood programs is presented. A follow-up retreat will be held November 13-15, 2008 where participants report on their progress in implementing a program improvement plan. Taking Charge of Change culminates with four days of training in conjunction with Leadership Connections in May 2009.

This training opportunity is limited to 28 participants. Priority is given to early childhood administrators of DCFS-licensed and license-exempt programs serving low-income children. Funding has been provided by the Illinois Department of Human Services. Illinois participants' portion is only $400 for all housing, food, texts, and materials. For more information, download a brochure or contact Debra Trude-Suter at (800) 443-5522, ext. 5056 or debra.trudesuter@nl.edu.

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 Tribune 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 food and lodging for attendance at 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.