Faced with growing evidence that achievement gaps in schools begin well before kindergarten, elementary school Principals and Childcare Directors from across the nation are gathering in Orlando from July 10th-13th to discuss how to improve schools for young learners. A key strategy is building stronger partnerships with preschool programs and families, as well as adapting schools to meet the unique needs of children from pre-K to 3rd grade. “Strengthening Communities through Developmentally Appropriate Practices for Young Learners” is a result of CAYL’s intensive work with Principals throughout the United States, and the demand from communities for increased training of early childhood professionals.
Dr. Valora Washington, President of The CAYL Institute remarks: “Research shows how vital the Principal leadership is in having an effective school for teachers and children. We are bringing both veteran and novice Principals together to learn from each other and to plan for the coming school year.”
At the conference the educators will hear from national leaders and have an opportunity to visit local elementary schools in the Orlando area. Expert speakers include David Lawrence Junior, Ellen Galinsky, and Maurice Sykes, amongst other skilled facilitators. A conference such as this one for early childhood leaders is necessary to better meet the needs of the children and families, to collaborate more effectively with community-based organizations, and to use diversity as strength in order to prepare every child for success!
“School leadership makes an incredible difference in the achievement of children,” stated Dr. Washington. “In Orlando we will work to help extend the leaders vision and provide up-to-date- information so that they will return to their schools in the fall with a specific action plan.”
