Professional Learning 

Generational Diversity in the Workplace

Cynthia Krosky, President, CSP, LCSW, Achieving Corporate Excellence, Inc.

Target Audience: Administrators, Direct Service Providers, Directors

Each generation has a defining moment that impacts their values and work ethic. Learn how to bridge the gap between generations at work. Employers and employees are complex. They have different leadership styles, motivational expectations, etc. In this session, attendees will learn how to lead, manage, and motivate a diverse workforce. The presenter will help you understand the communication styles, training needs, values, and attitudes of each generation. Learn strategies for working with your current workforce and be better prepared for the future.

Supporting Teacher Development Using The Zero to Three Critical Competencies

Natalie Jackson, Early Head Start Program Director, Children's Home Society of Florida

Target Audience: Administrators, Director Service Providers, Teachers: New, Teachers: Experienced

Learn how to effectively support teachers through a research-based set of early learning competencies that can be used for in-service training, coaching, and professional development for infant and toddler teachers.  This introduction to the Critical Competencies will provide a background and framework to align with the  Head Start standards. This interactive session will explore why they matter and use scenarios to identify the competencies in practice.  Examples will be shared on how to use the skills to improve teacher practices- training, observation, reflection, and feedback, and goal setting for professional development plans.

Center Managers are KEY Leaders – Building a 20/20 Shared Vision

Cindy Kaier, Early Childhood Specialist, Kaier ECConsulting

Target Audience: Administrators, Director Service Providers, Directors

This workshop will increase the professional development needed to assist Center Managers in acquiring and expanding the leadership knowledge and skills to provide high quality, comprehensive services for children and families. The presenter will discuss how grantees can build and support Center Managers to be effective instructional leaders in their organization who can collaborate with teachers, involve families, create supportive environments for children, and provide high-quality instruction. We will explore the Eight Leadership Qualities to support Center Managers for increased effectiveness and improve the knowledge and competence they need to be successful leaders.

Using Staff Meeting to Extend Teachers' Thinking

Hilary Nelson, Content Design Specialist, University of Florida, College of Education, Lastinger Center for Learning

Target Audience: Administrators, Director Service Providers, Directors, Training & Technical Staff

Staff meetings are essential, but they don't have to be boring! Capitalize on having your team together. Join me as I help redefine staff meetings. You will leave this session with proven concrete ways to engage teachers, extend their understanding of early childhood topics, and create ongoing meaningful dialogue. Using ethical dilemmas, you will gain a deeper understanding of how staff meetings can further teachers' thinking and professional development.