Taking Charge of Change

Join the ranks of over 450 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. Topics focus on individual and organizational change and the director's role as change agent. Through interactive learning, group discussions, guided reflection, reading, and visits to exemplary programs, participants explore the components of quality programming and how to implement change to achieve program excellence.

Training topics:

• the nature of individual and organizational change
• diagnosing organizational problems and assessing organizational change
• leadership in action—defining and assessing leadership behavior
• understanding and valuing diversity in the workplace
• achieving change through staff development
• understanding communication styles and managing conflict
• making the most of meetings
• shared decision-making—the centerpiece of participative management
• implementing an effective performance appraisal system
• center accreditation—how to make it a reality

The training begins with an intensive six-day residential summer institute August 3-8, 2009. A follow-up retreat takes place November 12-14, 2009 where participants report on progress in implementing a program improvement plan. Both events are held at the McCormick Tribune Center for Early Childhood Leadership in Wheeling, Illinois (map and directions). The training culminates with attendance at the Center's national Leadership Connections conference May 12-15, 2010. Mentors are available for consultation during the year to assist participants in implementing a program improvement plan.

This early childhood leadership training is limited to 28 participants. To be eligible, individuals must possess an associate's degree, although a bachelor's degree is preferred. Selection is based on the following criteria: 1) individuals who have demonstrated strong leadership potential; and 2) individuals who are interested in pursuing center accreditation. Priority is given to directors and assistant directors of DCFS-licensed and license-exempt programs serving low-income children.

This training is funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) and several corporations and philanthropic foundations. This year the participants' portion of the training cost is only $425. This fee includes full participation in the summer institute and follow-up retreats, lodging, food, text and materials. Participants are expected to cover their own travel expenses.

For an additional fee, participants can earn six semester hours of credit from National-Louis University (ECE525, Strategies for Supervision and Staff Development and EPS526, Group Dynamics and Leadership Application). These courses are applicable to the core competency requirements of the Illinois Directors Credential (IDC).

To apply, download a brochure and complete the application form or contact Debra Trude-Suter at (800) 443-5522, ext. 5056 or debra.trudesuter@nl.edu.