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Audience: Policy Maker clear filter
Tuesday, May 19
 

4:30pm EDT

(In-Person) Reflection/Networking Session: National/State/Community/Local Leaders
Tuesday May 19, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
The purposes of the reflection session are:
  • To set an intention for your time at the Institute.
  • To reflect on the Keynote and Plenary sessions.
  • Ensuring that you have an opportunity to connect, reflect, and build community.

Speakers
avatar for Ruth Gallucci

Ruth Gallucci

State ECSE AG Liaison, NASDSE
Ruth Gallucci serves as the National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE) State Early Childhood Special Education & IDEA Data Manager Affinity Group Liaison, as well as a Technical Assistance Consultant for the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (ECTA) and the Center... Read More →
avatar for Debbie Cate

Debbie Cate

TA Specialist, ECTA/DaSy
Debbie Cate is a technical assistance (TA) specialist with the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute (FPG) at the University of North Carolina (UNC). Her work within the Trohanis Technical Assistance Projects is with the Early Childhood TA Center (ECTA) and the Center for IDEA Early Childhood Data Systems (DaSy) Center. Her current work supports states in their provision of early childhood special education services in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), for children ages birth through... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Azalea
 
Wednesday, May 20
 

8:30am EDT

(In-Person) Engaging Families and Community Members While Centering Children's Humanity and Rightful Presence in Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) Implementation in Early Learning Settings
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
As families seeking early intervention support become increasingly diverse, so must our commitment to designing learning environments and supports where each child's and family's unique qualities  ,are acknowledged, valued, and supported.  ,Multi-tiered System of Supports (MTSS) offers a framework for meeting families and students' diverse needs and assets but MTSS fulfills its promise only when implemented in ways that affirm families' and students' full humanity and their rightful presence in all learning and community spaces.
Speakers
avatar for Seena Skelton

Seena Skelton

Founder/ Principal Consultant, Makeeba Consulting, LLC
Dr. Seena M. Skelton is a nationally recognized leader in educational justice, inclusion, and systemic school transformation, with over 28 years of experience. She serves as the Leadership Development and Research Project Director for SWIFT Education Center at the Life Span Institute... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Redbud

8:30am EDT

(In-Person) WE CAN AND WE MUST: Practical Strategies Advancing Inclusion and Belonging for Every Child
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
This session will highlight key strategies to advance meaningful inclusion and belonging and is designed for educators, educational leaders, and family partners across states, communities, and programs. Building inclusive communities requires intentional collaboration, both horizontally across programs and vertically within each program’s administrative structure, each tailored to the unique context of the state, community, and program. Participants will explore core principles, mindsets, and evidence-informed practices that strengthen inclusive opportunities for every child. The session will feature successful policies, guidance, and actionable strategies that can be implemented at multiple levels of the system and across programs. Corresponding tools and resources will be shared to support sustained implementation and cross-role partnership.
Speakers
avatar for Ruth Gallucci

Ruth Gallucci

State ECSE AG Liaison, NASDSE
Ruth Gallucci serves as the National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE) State Early Childhood Special Education & IDEA Data Manager Affinity Group Liaison, as well as a Technical Assistance Consultant for the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (ECTA) and the Center... Read More →
avatar for Debbie Cate

Debbie Cate

TA Specialist, ECTA/DaSy
Debbie Cate is a technical assistance (TA) specialist with the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute (FPG) at the University of North Carolina (UNC). Her work within the Trohanis Technical Assistance Projects is with the Early Childhood TA Center (ECTA) and the Center for IDEA Early Childhood Data Systems (DaSy) Center. Her current work supports states in their provision of early childhood special education services in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), for children ages birth through... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Windflower

10:15am EDT

(In-Person) A Least Restricted Environment (LRE) Toolkit for Families of Young Children
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Join us to learn how we created a toolkit for families that is designed for families by families to help them advocate for inclusion from the start. The toolkit is designed to support families in navigating inclusion in the early childhood system. Each resource is accompanied with links and guidance to help families and providers understand and use the tools effectively. We will share our strategies for marketing the toolkit and engaging stakeholders in sharing the toolkit across our state.
Speakers
avatar for Ann Kremer

Ann Kremer

Director, Early CHOICES
Ann Kremer is the Project Director for Early CHOICES a preschool inclusion initiative of the Illinois State Board of Education. The mission of Early CHOICES is to increase high quality inclusive opportunities for young children. Ann has a masters of education in early childhood education... Read More →
avatar for Tareema Jean-Baptiste

Tareema Jean-Baptiste

Early Childhood Special Education Family Professional Development Resource Specialist, STAR NET Region V
Tareema Jean-Baptiste is the Early Childhood Special Education Family Professional Development Resource Specialist for Star Net Region V (City of Chicago). A dedicated expert in special education and family advocacy, Tareema brings both professional depth and personal passion to her work.As a fierce advoc... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Bellflower

10:15am EDT

(In-Person) Building Belonging for Infants and Toddlers: Strategies for Inclusive Child Care Experiences
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Families of infants and toddlers regularly seek out child care for their children--however for children with disabilities finding care that not only provides access for their families but a true sense of belonging remains challenging. This session will provide research, resources, and strategies for supporting inclusive child care systems for infants and toddlers with disabilities and developmental delays. We will focus on state and program-level barriers and opportunities for Part C early intervention and child care systems to work together to create meaningful and inclusive experiences for families. Participants will leave with reflection tools to bring back home to impact infants and toddlers in their states and communities.
Speakers
avatar for Jenna Weglarz-Ward

Jenna Weglarz-Ward

Associate Professor, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Dr. Weglarz-Ward is an associate professor across early childhood and special education programs at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Her work centers around supporting inclusive experiences for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families--with a focus on family partnership... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Dogwood

10:15am EDT

(In-Person) Pediatrics and Child Welfare: Partnering to Support Families Experiencing Heightened Adversities
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
We know that infants and toddlers thrive when surrounded by responsive and caring adults. We also know that families with young children often experience high levels of stress, particularly when they are involved with Child Welfare Systems.  This session will provide an overview of an innovative collaboration designed to support families navigating this experience in Arkansas. HealthySteps and Safe Babies Programs are working together to support pathways to improve access to quality medical homes for children and families who are experiencing heightened adversities and/or involvement with the Child Welfare System with the goal of increasing relationships beyond the pediatric community and continuity for children in foster care with established medical homes. HealthySteps is a program that adds the expertise of a child development and behavioral health promotion and prevention expert, a HealthySteps Specialist, to the pediatric primary care team. Safe Babies is an approach driven by a vision of prevention and mobilized through collaborative partnerships within communities and states to meet the urgent developmental needs of babies and toddlers. Safe Babies applies the science of early childhood to the practices of Child Welfare with an innovative team-based approach to improve outcomes for children and families impacted by greater adversities and family separation.
Participants will learn more about both programs, successes, challenges, and lessons learned from the collaboration in Arkansas, and opportunities for future innovations.

Speakers
avatar for Natalie Tackitt

Natalie Tackitt

HealthySteps Coordinator, ZERO TO THREE
Natalie Tackitt is the North Carolina Coordinator for HealthySteps, a program of ZERO TO THREE. She has over 30 years’ experience in a variety of educational settings including pre-schools, Parenting Education in home visiting, school and pediatric settings, elementary classroom... Read More →
avatar for Darneshia Allen

Darneshia Allen

Training/Technical Assistance Integration Manager, Safe Babies, ZERO TO THREE
Darneshia Allen offers over 30 years of experience working with young children. Her background includes intensive work with families in urban communities, years of experience in Early Care and Education, which ultimately led to the development of a Pre-K 4 program. She joined ZERO... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Moutain Laurel

10:15am EDT

(In-Person) Using the AEPS-3 to Support Inclusion for Young Children
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
The Assessment, Evaluation, and Programming System (3rd Ed.) is a linked system that includes assessment, goal development, teaching/intervention, and progress monitoring. The presenter, an author of the AEPS-3, will describe each component of the AEPS-3 and how it can be used to support young children in inclusive settings. The presentation will focus on: 1) the importance of using authentic assessment information to development functional goals, 2) a tiered curriculum framework that provides guidance on universal (tier 1), focused (tier 2), and specialized (tier 3) support, 3) how to use the AEPS-3 as an ongoing progress monitoring tool, and 4) how to include families in all aspects of their child's education using AEPS-3. ,
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Grisham

Jennifer Grisham

Professor Emeritus, University of Kentucky
Jennifer Grisham, Ed.D. Jennifer Grisham, Ed.D. is a Professor Emeritus in the Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education program at the University of Kentucky. She taught there for 35 years and was Faculty Director of the UK Early Childhood Lab for 25 years. She taught courses in... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Redbud

12:45pm EDT

(Hybrid) From Vision to Practice: The Revised DEC-NAEYC Joint Position Statement on Early Childhood Inclusion
Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Creating inclusive early learning environments takes intention, collaboration, and action. Grounded in the shared mission of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Division for Early Childhood (DEC), the Joint Position Statement on Early Childhood Inclusion calls on all of us to move from vision to practice. In this session, you’ll learn what’s new in the currently being-revised statement, have an opportunity to share your feedback, and explore concrete ways everyone of us can apply these principles to strengthen inclusion and belonging across early childhood environments.
Speakers
avatar for Peggy Kemp

Peggy Kemp

Executive Director, Division for Early Childhood (DEC)
Peggy is the Executive Director of the Division for Early Childhood of the Council for Exceptional Children (DEC). Dr. Kemp is a recognized leader and tireless advocate devoted to quality services to young children with disabilities, their families, and the professionals who serve... Read More →
avatar for Megan Vinh

Megan Vinh

Faculty, Frank Porter Graham
Megan Vinh, PhD, is a senior technical assistance specialist at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, she leads projects aimed at improving access, experiences, and outcomes for children with disabilities within the early... Read More →
MH

Mary Harrill

Senior Director, Higher Education, National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
Mary Harrill is senior director of higher education at the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Redbud

12:45pm EDT

(In-Person) Strategies for Supporting Participation and Learning for Children with Vision and Hearing Needs
Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Children with low-incidents conditions often need specialized intervention strategies to fully participate in home and classroom activities. Until now, the strategies were implemented by specialists and largely unknown to caregivers and teachers. FIPP has partnered with the Early Learning and Sensory Support Team to develop guides for working with children with low incidents conditions using strategies any can implement. ,
Speakers
avatar for Kris Everhart

Kris Everhart

Associate Director, Family, Infant and Preschool Program
Kris Everhart is the Associate Director of the Family, Infant and Preschool Program in Morganton, North Carolina. Kris is a speech-language pathologist with nearly 30 years of experience working in early intervention with families of infants and toddlers.
Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Moutain Laurel

2:00pm EDT

(Hybrid) Coaching for Belonging: Expanding the Pyramid Coaching Model Through Inclusive Community Partnerships
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
This interactive session explores how the Pyramid Coaching Model can be expanded beyond classroom practice into community based and cross sector systems that support young children, families, and the adults who care for them. Using real world examples from large scale implementation efforts, participants will examine how reflective coaching strengthens educator confidence, promotes family belonging, and builds sustainable partnerships across agencies and community stakeholders.
A featured systems case example will highlight the adaptation of Pyramid Model principles within community safety partnerships, including collaboration with police force leadership and family support systems through the Positive Solutions for Families Train the Trainers model. This example demonstrates how Pyramid practices can be translated into relationship based leadership, prevention, and regulation strategies that strengthen trust and belonging across the broader community.
Participants will engage in reflective dialogue and practical planning around how coaching infrastructures, implementation teams, and family centered partnerships can be leveraged to create inclusive systems change that is sustainable, equitable, and culturally responsive.
Participant Outcomes
By the end of the session, participants will:
  • Explore advanced applications of the Pyramid Coaching Model across systems
  • Learn how Positive Solutions for Families train the trainers structures strengthen community capacity
  • Analyze a cross sector example integrating Pyramid practices with police and family systems
  • Identify strategies for building sustainable inclusive community partnerships
  • Develop one action step for expanding belonging in their own implementation context

Speakers
avatar for Yolanda Sosa

Yolanda Sosa

Yolanda Sosa has worked for 30 years in Early Intervention/ Childhood. She has been an International Consultant/Presenter in Mental Health and for Pyramid Model Consortium for 25 years; presenting in national, international conferences and training institutes; coaching on Trauma-Informed... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Dogwood

2:00pm EDT

(In-Person) ICP Revised Edition: Findings from the ICP Pilot
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
This session presents the an overview of the revised Inclusive Classroom Profile and shares findings from the research study that assessed the psychometric properties of the revised tool.  ,Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the changes, additions and new features of the ICP tool,  ,discuss the findings of the pilot research and reflect upon the different ways they can use the ICP tool in their own work.
Speakers
LR

Lia Rucker

State Anchor, NC Rated License Assessment Project, UNC-G, Human Development and Family Studies
NA
avatar for Amy Grattan

Amy Grattan

Executive Director, Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities Rhode Island University
NA
avatar for Elena Soukakou

Elena Soukakou

Faculty, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Elena P. Soukakou is an Honorary Research Fellow in the School Education, University of Roehampton, United Kingdom. She is also teaching faculty at the Department of Early Childhood Education of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. Dr. Soukakou has been working in the... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Redbud

3:15pm EDT

(Hybrid) A Retrospective on Inclusion: Building and Sustaining Inclusive Early Childhood Systems Over Time: Part 1 of a 2-Part Session
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Data demonstrating inclusive opportunities for children with disabilities has long been stagnant. This is largely because it is very difficult for states to unify and align systems that support high-quality inclusion across fragmented early childhood environments (e.g. public schools, Head Start, community-based childcare and home-based care.) This session showcases the journey for two states two years after receiving intensive technical assistance aimed at implementing inclusive practices statewide. Leaders will highlight bright spots, showcasing how they have supported systems with a shared purpose around inclusive early childhood education. Leaders will also share the persistent challenges that hinder progress for children, families and providers in programs. Facilitators will guide discussions that help participants to uncover innovative, cross-sector solutions to ensure access, participation and belonging for children with disabilities across the system. Participants will leave with a toolkit of strategies to support implementation and sustainability of policies and practices in their own mixed-delivery early childhood systems.
Speakers
avatar for Alissa Rausch

Alissa Rausch

University of Denver

avatar for Megan Vinh

Megan Vinh

Faculty, Frank Porter Graham
Megan Vinh, PhD, is a senior technical assistance specialist at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, she leads projects aimed at improving access, experiences, and outcomes for children with disabilities within the early... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Dogwood

3:15pm EDT

(Hybrid) When the Roads Don’t Meet: Improving Pathways to Early Intervention and Inclusion
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
This session explores the intersections between early identification, early intervention, and inclusion in early childhood systems. Using a Fragile X case example and cross-system research findings, presenters will examine where families encounter barriers and highlight practical strategies to improve referrals, coordination, navigation supports, and inclusive participation outcomes.
Speakers
avatar for Sheresa Blanchard

Sheresa Blanchard

Senior Education Researcher & Technical Assistance Specialist, SRI International/Education Division
Sheresa B. Blanchard, PhD, is a senior education researcher and technical assistance specialist at SRI with over 25 years of experience in education, early childhood, special education, and early intervention. She is currently the co-lead for the DaSy/ECTA Cross-Center Child Find... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Redbud

3:15pm EDT

(In-Person) Maximizing Your Strengths: The Power of Lived Experience
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
There are lots of valuable resources and modules for families with young children.  ,Sometimes the modules and trainings do not provide specific language or tools for children with disabilities.  ,This can sometimes lead to families feeling unsupported and in the weeds.  ,The goal of my session is to help families and providers understand the value of lived experience through identifying family strengths, recognizing the challenges that arise with the absence of support in specific areas, and learning how to ask for help and be heard.
Speakers
avatar for Sanaa Sharrieff

Sanaa Sharrieff

Community Partner Engagement Coordinator, DHHS
Sanaa Sharrieff is a parent leader whose lived experience provides some insight into her work. She supports equitable outcomes for children and families. She currently serves as Community Partner Engagement Coordinator in the newly formed CSPD Department of the Early Intervention... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Moutain Laurel

4:30pm EDT

(Hybrid) A Retrospective on Inclusion: Building and Sustaining Inclusive Early Childhood Systems Over Time: Part 2 of a 2-Part Session
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Data demonstrating inclusive opportunities for children with disabilities has long been stagnant. This is largely because it is very difficult for states to unify and align systems that support high-quality inclusion across fragmented early childhood environments (e.g. public schools, Head Start, community-based childcare and home-based care.) This session showcases the journey for two states two years after receiving intensive technical assistance aimed at implementing inclusive practices statewide. Leaders will highlight bright spots, showcasing how they have supported systems with a shared purpose around inclusive early childhood education. Leaders will also share the persistent challenges that hinder progress for children, families and providers in programs. Facilitators will guide discussions that help participants to uncover innovative, cross-sector solutions to ensure access, participation and belonging for children with disabilities across the system. Participants will leave with a toolkit of strategies to support implementation and sustainability of policies and practices in their own mixed-delivery early childhood systems.
Speakers
avatar for Alissa Rausch

Alissa Rausch

University of Denver

avatar for Megan Vinh

Megan Vinh

Faculty, Frank Porter Graham
Megan Vinh, PhD, is a senior technical assistance specialist at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, she leads projects aimed at improving access, experiences, and outcomes for children with disabilities within the early... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Dogwood

4:30pm EDT

(Hybrid) Finding Our North Star: Defining What We’re Fighting For in Early Childhood Inclusion
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
In the complex world of early childhood inclusion, it can be difficult to stay grounded in what truly matters. This panel explores how mothers at different stages of the journey define their “North Star” and use it to guide decisions and advocacy. Those just beginning share the uncertainty and questions they face, while more experienced mothers reflect on how their perspectives have evolved over time. Together, they offer insight into navigating systems, shifting priorities, and staying focused on the child.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Buesching

Sarah Buesching

Sarah Buesching is an early childhood educator with over 15 years experience working with young children. She is the mom to two boys, the oldest of whom has Down syndrome and Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy.
avatar for Christy Cooper

Christy Cooper

Assistant Director, North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance
Christy Cooper is the Assistant Director for the North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance. She joined the NCDSA staff in August 2024 after years of being both a volunteer and a parent supported by the organization. Christy worked for the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network as their Family... Read More →
avatar for Kim Tizzard

Kim Tizzard

Director of Family Support, Autism Society of North Carolina
Kim Tizzard has been with the Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) for a little over 21 years. In her current role as Director of Family Support, Ms. Tizzard oversees the work of ASNC's Autism Resource Specialists and Support Groups across the State. She advocates for a blended... Read More →
avatar for Christy Koury

Christy Koury

Christy Koury is a freelance copywriter and editor and mother of three daughters, two of whom have mitochondrial disease and autism.
avatar for Nailah Wright

Nailah Wright

Nailah Wright is a Networking Sales Account Manager, wife, and mom of two children. One who has ASD and ADHD.
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Redbud

4:30pm EDT

(In-Person) Rising Together: Fostering Wellness in Home Visiting and Early Intervention
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
The Institute for Home Visiting Workforce Development (Workforce Institute) ,is advancing a National Strategy for the Home Visiting Workforce to strengthen support for home visitors, focusing on wellbeing, career pathways, and workforce stability. This session will explore evidence-based strategies to improve workforce well-being, with specific implications for Early Intervention (EI) professionals. Through interactive engagement, participants will identify current initiatives and co-create personal action plans for sustainability. ,
Speakers
avatar for Katari Coleman, PhD

Katari Coleman, PhD

Senior Project Director, Education Development Center, Inc.
Katari Coleman, an early childhood education thought leader and expert, leads innovative efforts to advance all children’s and success. She has expertise in child development, out-of-school time (OST) care, early childhood and OST workforce development, family engagement, parent... Read More →
avatar for Pritay Washington

Pritay Washington

Training & Technical Assistance Associate, Education Development Center, Inc.
Pritay Washington is an experienced trainer and manager who supports early childhood and out-of-school time programs in improving service quality to promote school readiness and youth success. She specializes in designing professional learning, delivering outcomes-focused technical... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Windflower

4:30pm EDT

(In-Person) “Keeping Kids Connected: What Families (and Professionals) Need to Know About Exclusionary Discipline in Early Childhood Settings (and What to Do When It Happens)
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Preschoolers are suspended at nearly three times the rate of their school‑aged counterparts, with disparities across gender, race, and disability status placing some young children at significantly greater risk than others. While certain forms of exclusionary discipline are widely recognized, many young children experience “informal” or “soft” exclusion—practices that families and even early childhood professionals may not identify as exclusionary at all.

In this session, attendees will learn about and discuss what exclusionary discipline looks like in early childhood settings, how it affects children and families, and what we can do together to reduce its use and support more inclusive, developmentally appropriate practices.
Speakers
avatar for Kristen Paul

Kristen Paul

Director of Early Childhood Programs, The Parents' Place of Maryland
Kristen Paul has worked with children and families for over 25 years in a variety of capacities, including as a high school science teacher, Federal agency education advisor, college administrator, and in family support for Birth to Five programs. In addition to her current role as... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Moutain Laurel
 
Thursday, May 21
 

10:30am EDT

(Hybrid) From Data to Action: Using Data to Make Informed Decisions
Thursday May 21, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
 ,
This session will examine data on the federal, state, and local levels to identify who is included and who isn’t. Through the review and analysis of environment, age, eligibility, and location, participants will explore making informed programmatic decisions and identify strategies to include all.  ,The session will highlight practical strategies to develop a culture of data use to examine and improve program quality.  ,
 ,
Speakers
avatar for Debbie Cate

Debbie Cate

TA Specialist, ECTA/DaSy
Debbie Cate is a technical assistance (TA) specialist with the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute (FPG) at the University of North Carolina (UNC). Her work within the Trohanis Technical Assistance Projects is with the Early Childhood TA Center (ECTA) and the Center for IDEA Early Childhood Data Systems (DaSy) Center. Her current work supports states in their provision of early childhood special education services in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), for children ages birth through... Read More →
avatar for Micole Atkins Kirkland

Micole Atkins Kirkland

TA Specialist, SRI International
Micole Atkins Kirkland, Ed.D., education researcher and technical assistance provider at SRI, works within the Center for IDEA Early Childhood Data Systems (DaSy Center) to support State Education Agencies (SEA) in uncovering and addressing data quality issues and disparities. Prior to joining SRI, she served... Read More →
Thursday May 21, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Redbud

10:30am EDT

(In-Person) From Concern to Connection, Navigating Early Intervention and Special Education Services in Early Childhood
Thursday May 21, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Early childhood providers are often the first to notice when a child may need extra support. What can be harder is knowing what to look for, how to bring concerns to a family in a supportive way, and where to connect them next.
This session will share how Family Connection of South Carolina works with families and early childhood providers to help move from concern to support. We will talk about programs and services available across South Carolina for young children with disabilities, including early intervention, preschool special education, and other family supports. We will also review healthy growth and development so participants can better recognize when a child may need a closer look.
A big part of this session will focus on connection and coordination. We will walk through how to refer a child for BabyNet or preschool special education services and how providers can use state and national early childhood resources to better support families. We will also share what we have learned through Family Connection’s work with early childhood partners, including ways to have supportive conversations with families, how to build trust, and how to help families feel less overwhelmed when concerns first come up.
This session is grounded in the family perspective and in the role of Parent Training and Information Centers as trusted partners for both providers and families.
Speakers
LS

Laurie Strickland

Director of Early Childhood, Family Connection of South Carolina, Family Connection of South Carolina
Laurie Strickland is the Director of Early Childhood at Family Connection SC, where she leverages over 7 years of experience empowering families. With a Social Work degree and a Master of Education from Winthrop University, she brings a unique perspective to child development across... Read More →
Thursday May 21, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Bellflower
 
Wednesday, June 24
 

8:00am EDT

(Virtual) Inclusive Systems, and Early Relational Health : Leadership Strategies for Young Children and Families
Wednesday June 24, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am EDT
This session centers the growing intersection of inclusion, relational health, and systems level early relational health (psychological safety) But we supports for young children and their families. Participants will explore how implementation leaders can strengthen systems through practices that prioritize connection, emotional regulation, family voice, and reflective leadership.
Drawing from current work in early childhood mental health, Pyramid Model implementation, and family belonging frameworks, the session offers practical strategies for integrating inclusion and emotional wellness into professional development systems, community partnerships, and family engagement structures. Participants will examine how leadership teams can move from isolated practices toward a coherent systems approach that supports educators, families, and children through a lens of belonging, dignity, and prevention.
 This session is especially relevant for leaders/ professionals interested in bridging inclusion work with early childhood mental health and cross sector collaboration.
Participant Outcomes
Participants will:
  • Deepen understanding of relational health as a foundation for inclusion
  • Explore systems strategies that connect mental wellness with Pyramid implementation
  • Strengthen family belonging and community partnership structures
  • Apply reflective leadership strategies to systems level change
  • Leave with tools to align inclusion and mental health priorities across teams

Speakers
avatar for Yolanda Sosa

Yolanda Sosa

Yolanda Sosa has worked for 30 years in Early Intervention/ Childhood. She has been an International Consultant/Presenter in Mental Health and for Pyramid Model Consortium for 25 years; presenting in national, international conferences and training institutes; coaching on Trauma-Informed... Read More →
Wednesday June 24, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom

8:00am EDT

(Virtual) “Keeping Kids Connected: What Families (and Professionals) Need to Know About Exclusionary Discipline in Early Childhood Settings (and What to Do When It Happens)
Wednesday June 24, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am EDT
Preschoolers are suspended at nearly three times the rate of their school‑aged counterparts, with disparities across gender, race, and disability status placing some young children at significantly greater risk than others. While certain forms of exclusionary discipline are widely recognized, many young children experience “informal” or “soft” exclusion—practices that families and even early childhood professionals may not identify as exclusionary at all.

In this session, attendees will learn about and discuss what exclusionary discipline looks like in early childhood settings, how it affects children and families, and what we can do together to reduce its use and support more inclusive, developmentally appropriate practices.
Speakers
avatar for Kristen Paul

Kristen Paul

Director of Early Childhood Programs, The Parents' Place of Maryland
Kristen Paul has worked with children and families for over 25 years in a variety of capacities, including as a high school science teacher, Federal agency education advisor, college administrator, and in family support for Birth to Five programs. In addition to her current role as... Read More →
Wednesday June 24, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom

10:00am EDT

(Virtual) Using the AEPS-3 in International Contexts
Wednesday June 24, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
The Assessment, Evaluation, and Programming System - 3rd Edition (AEPS-3) has gained recognition in a variety of international contexts due to its adherence to recommended practices for serving young children with disabilities. In this presentation, the presenter will describe the process of validating a tool, developed in the United States, for use in countries with different languages and cultures. The presenter has wide experience conducting this work and will share the opportunities and barriers of adapting tools like the AEPS-3. Those not working in international contexts will find the presentation useful as they consider how measures they are using address the needs of the diverse populations of children and families they serve. ,
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Grisham

Jennifer Grisham

Professor Emeritus, University of Kentucky
Jennifer Grisham, Ed.D. Jennifer Grisham, Ed.D. is a Professor Emeritus in the Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education program at the University of Kentucky. She taught there for 35 years and was Faculty Director of the UK Early Childhood Lab for 25 years. She taught courses in... Read More →
Wednesday June 24, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom

6:00pm EDT

(Virtual) Introduction to an Embedded Learning Framework and Its Use (Part 1 of a 2-part session)
Wednesday June 24, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
We will describe an embedded learning framework for use in birth-to-five contexts. We will discuss the rationale for the framework and the effective practices it includes. We will describe how and why the framework and practices have been adapted over time, based on implementation experiences, user feedback, and research findings. Strategies and resources to support its use will be shared. Discussion with participants on ways the framework and practices have been used successfully in local and state contexts in the United States will set the stage for Part 2 of this session.

Speakers
avatar for John Forster

John Forster

Noah's Ark Inc
John Forster is the Chief Executive Officer of Noah’s Ark Inc., an Australian organisation dedicated to supporting children with developmental delays and disabilities and their families. He is a recognised leader in early childhood intervention, with a strong focus on inclusion... Read More →
avatar for Tara McLaughlin

Tara McLaughlin

Dr. Tara McLaughlin is an Associate Professor in Early Years Education and the founder and director of the Early Years Research Lab (www.eyrl.nz) at Massey University. She is the new Head of the Institute of Education at Massey University, leading the teams working across academic and professional programmes in education. Before joining Massey University in 2013, she was a Research Scientist at the University of Florida's... Read More →
avatar for Patricia (“Pat”) Snyder

Patricia (“Pat”) Snyder

Dr. Patricia (“Pat”) Snyder is a Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Special Education and Early Childhood Studies, an affiliate Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics, the David Lawrence Jr. Endowed Chair Emeritus, and the founding Director Emeritus of the Anita Zucker Center for Excellence... Read More →
Wednesday June 24, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom

7:00pm EDT

(Virtual) Adapting the Embedded Learning Framework for Contextual and Cultural Fit (Part 2 of a 2-part session)
Wednesday June 24, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
In this session, we will expand discussions of the embedded learning framework and its effective practices. We will describe why and how they have been adapted to enhance contextual and cultural fit in two international contexts: New Zealand and Australia. We will discuss examples of current activities and resources supporting the use of the framework and practices in these two contexts. Lessons learned about cross-sector and cross-cultural adaptations will be shared, including opportunities and challenges for different contexts. Participants will have opportunities to engage in discussion with the presenters and other participants about considerations related to the adoption, adaptation, implementation, scale-up, and sustainability of the framework and practices.

Speakers
avatar for John Forster

John Forster

Noah's Ark Inc
John Forster is the Chief Executive Officer of Noah’s Ark Inc., an Australian organisation dedicated to supporting children with developmental delays and disabilities and their families. He is a recognised leader in early childhood intervention, with a strong focus on inclusion... Read More →
avatar for Tara McLaughlin

Tara McLaughlin

Dr. Tara McLaughlin is an Associate Professor in Early Years Education and the founder and director of the Early Years Research Lab (www.eyrl.nz) at Massey University. She is the new Head of the Institute of Education at Massey University, leading the teams working across academic and professional programmes in education. Before joining Massey University in 2013, she was a Research Scientist at the University of Florida's... Read More →
avatar for Patricia (“Pat”) Snyder

Patricia (“Pat”) Snyder

Dr. Patricia (“Pat”) Snyder is a Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Special Education and Early Childhood Studies, an affiliate Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics, the David Lawrence Jr. Endowed Chair Emeritus, and the founding Director Emeritus of the Anita Zucker Center for Excellence... Read More →
Wednesday June 24, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom

8:00pm EDT

(Virtual) Targeting Higher Quality: Early Childhood Inclusive Education Practice in China
Wednesday June 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Based on a five-year project and research funded by the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China and UNICEF, this presentation will share the findings from experience of practitioners and researchers on inclusive preschool education in 37 kindergartens across seven pilot areas in China. It focuses on how multiple stakeholders, including university researchers, regional resource centers, preschool teachers, and health departments, collaborate and integrate resources to enhance teachers' inclusive education competencies, improve the quality of inclusive education in kindergartens, and ensure that more children can access and participate in high-quality early childhood education.

Speakers
avatar for Xueyun Su

Xueyun Su

Deputy Dean, China Research Institute of Care and Education of Infants and Young Children, East China Normal University
Su Xueyun, Ph.D. in Special Education, is a Professor and Doctoral Supervisor serving as the Associate Dean of the China Research Institute of Care and Education of Infants and Young Children in East China Normal University (ECNU). She also holds key roles including Standing Council Member of the Early Childhood Education Professional Committee of the Chinese Society of Education.She has long been dedicated to research in preschool inclusive education, early intervention, and child development, exerting profound... Read More →
Wednesday June 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
 
Thursday, June 25
 

10:00am EDT

(Virtual) Designing and Implementing Blended Preparation and Professional Development: A Discussion
Thursday June 25, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
There is limited guidance for faculty and professional development providers interested in designing and implementing ‘blended’ personnel preparation or professional development programs (i.e., ones that attempt to blend both general and special education theory and practice). This session will provide practical guidance and resources for applying a blended approach to preparation and professional development across the continuum of early childhood personnel preparation and support. Participants will engage in interactive and collaborative exploration of resources as they apply to their individual contexts.
Speakers
CC

Ching-I Chen

Associate Professor, Kent State University
avatar for Naomi Rahn

Naomi Rahn

Associate Professor, University of Wisconcin-Whitewater
Dr. Rahn is an associate professor of special education at University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. She has taught at several universities and has worked in the field as an early childhood special education teacher and early interventionist. Her areas of interest include naturalistic... Read More →
Thursday June 25, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom

10:00am EDT

(Virtual) Why the Routines-Based Interview Is a Cross-Cultural Success
Thursday June 25, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
The RBI was developed in the United States, where it has undergone trials with different cultures. With international implementation of the Routines-Based Model, the RBI has also been exported to culture overseas, in Australasia, the Far East, Central Europe, and Southern Europe. This presentation will address cross-cultural adaptations and how these have remained faithful to the model.
Speakers
avatar for Robin McWilliam

Robin McWilliam

Professor, The University of Alabama
Robin is a professor of Education at The University of Alabama, where he is the director of the Evidence-based International Early Intervention Office (EIEIO). He is also the founder and director of The RAM Group, a collection of experts on the Routines-Based Model.
CS

Cami Stevenson

Administrator and Associate Director, Multnomah Early Childhood Program and EIEIO

Thursday June 25, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
 
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