2026 International Early Childhood Inclusion Institute

Preparing the next generation of early childhood professionals to support inclusive learning environments begins before they enter the workforce. This session highlights the STEMIE Student Mentoring Cohort, a structured mentoring and learning experience designed to introduce undergraduate students to inclusive STEM practices for young children with disabilities. Participants will learn how the cohort integrates STEMIE resources, mentoring relationships, and applied learning activities to help students explore inclusive practices and consider careers supporting young children with disabilities and their families. Students in the cohort will highlight how the experience shaped their understanding of inclusion and their future professional goals. Participants will leave with ideas for how mentoring programs and partnerships with higher education can help strengthen the pipeline of professionals prepared to support inclusive early learning.