Virtual Course Descriptions
Each training is organized into and labeled with tier levels of Emerging Leader (EL), Developing Leader (DL) and Transformational Leader (TL) for you to easily see which training might be the right fit for you.
- Emerging Leader – an aspiring or new leader as they assume a leadership position or role seeking to build a foundation of skills needed to become an effective leader.
- Developing Leaders – a leader early to mid-career who continues to advance his/her knowledge and skills seeking to better themselves for the betterment of others.
- Transformational Leaders – professional leader with a growth mindset who contributes as a leader to the early childhood community and beyond.
April Sessions
April 7, 9-10 a.m.
Mocha with MO-SECA – EC Energize: Marketing/Recruiting (1 clock hour) presented by Jennifer Biles (EL, DL, TL)
Attracting and recruiting qualified educators requires more than posting a job opening—it requires a clear message, intentional outreach, and a strong program identity.
In this energizing Community of Practice (CoP) session, ECE administrators will explore effective marketing and recruiting strategies designed specifically for early childhood programs.
Participants will reflect on how their program is currently represented, identify opportunities to strengthen recruitment efforts, and share practical tools for attracting candidates who align with their mission and values. Join us to learn how intentional marketing and strategic recruiting can help build a strong, committed workforce that supports long-term program success.
April 7, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Get to Know MO-SECA (1 clock hour)
presented by Melissa Roach (EL)
Are you familiar with MO-SECA? Missouri Supporting Early Childhood Administrators (MO-SECA) engages early childhood program administrators to develop knowledge, skills, and connections needed to effectively lead and operate sustainable, quality programs. Come learn how this dynamic program combines 1:1 coaching support with specially designed professional development to create a space where administrators thrive.
April 8, 1:30-3 p.m.
Applying the Tools of Leadershop Essentials
presented by Amy Anderson (EL)
This training offers early learning administrators knowledge of the foundational tools and strategies of effective leadership. Participants will explore key leadership principles such as communication, team building, motivation, and decision-making. Through practical exercises, administrators will learn how to lead with confidence, foster a culturally competent center, and inspire their teams to deliver high-quality care. Emphasis will be placed on applying these leadership tools to the real-world of early education. By the end of the session, participants will be empowered to lead with purpose, creating environments that thrive on trust, respect, and collaboration.
April 14, noon-1:30 p.m.
Leveraging Community Resources to Enhance ECE Programs
presented by Carrie McKee (EL)
In this engaging session, administrators will explore practical strategies for identifying, accessing, and integrating community resources into their early childhood programs. Participants will learn how to build meaningful connections with local organizations, healthcare providers, and social services to better support children and families. Through real-world examples and actionable insights, the session will guide attendees in navigating available resources and incorporating them into their programs to enhance quality and effectiveness. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with tools and strategies to establish lasting community partnerships that strengthen their program offerings and address the diverse needs of families.
April 15, noon-1:30 p.m.
Filling Buckets: Strength-Based Leadershop for Creating a Culture of Trust and Emotional Safety in the ECE Workplace – Part Two
presented by Dana Harper (DL)
The second session in this series on “How Full is Your Bucket?” explores the strategies to Prevent Bucket Dipping, Shine a Light on What’s Right, and Make Best Friends. Administrators will learn how to reduce negative “dips,” acknowledge what is going right, and develop a trusting ECE work environment. Through discussion and practical skill-building activities, participants learn how consistent positive interactions uplift teams, reduce burnout, and reinforce a culture where every staff member feels valued. This session builds on the skills gained from Part One by shifting toward outward-facing leadership practices.
April 21, noon-1:30 p.m.
The Growth Mindset in ECE: Nurturing Educators and Programs
presented by Melissa Roach (TL)
Learn how cultivating a growth mindset in yourself, your staff, and your program can inspire innovation, encourage continuous improvement, and build resilience. This approach fosters a culture of learning and adaptability, empowering everyone to thrive and overcome challenges in early childhood education.
April 22, 9-10:30 a.m.
Facility Focus: The Importance of Documentation for Routine Maintenance
presented by Cheryl Maybrier (DL)
During this training, we will look at examples of routine maintenance within ECE facilities, along with the importance of having documentation in place to ensure the safety and well-being of staff, families, and the facility. We will discuss and deepen our understanding of how completing maintenance effectively reduces risk within the program and enhances child outcomes.
April 28, 9-10:30 a.m.
Communicating Salary Scales Transparently
presented by Temple Baxley (TL)
A well-structured salary scale is more than just a compensation tool—it’s a critical factor in staff retention, motivation, and the overall wellness of your ECE program. This training will explore how clear and transparent salary structures support business stability, enhance staff growth and development, and build trust within your team. Learn strategies for effectively communicating salary scales and compensation practices to ensure fairness, equity, and long-term program sustainability. By fostering transparency, you can create an environment where educators feel valued, supported, and committed to your organization’s success.
May Sessions
May 6, noon-1:30 p.m.
The Impact of Effective Hiring and Onboarding Processes – Part One
presented by Dana Harper (EL)
This session will guide early childhood administrators through the hiring process from start to finish with a focus on how thoughtful, intentional practices impact program quality and children’s daily experiences. We will reflect on how recruitment, interviewing, and selection influence staff morale, classroom climate, and family trust. Using items from the Program Administration Scale (PAS-3) as a reference, we will identify key indicators of strong human resource practices and discuss how to apply them in real program settings. Participants will engage in collaborative discussions to exchange strategies currently working in their centers and explore resources designed to streamline hiring practices.
May 12, 9-10:30 a.m.
The Impact of Effective Hiring and Onboarding Processes – Part Two
presented by Amy Drury (EL)
In this follow-up session, we will focus on developing a comprehensive orientation policy tailored to the early learning setting. We will explore how clear expectations, supportive onboarding, and intentional introductions help new teachers and staff quickly integrate into program culture, support continuity of care, and improve classroom stability for children. Drawing from the PAS-3 items on human resources and staff orientation, we will examine best practices that lead to higher retention and reduced turnover in early learning programs. Participants will also have dedicated time to connect with peers, share real success stories from their centers, and reflect on challenges, creating a network of support for building stronger staff foundations that directly benefit children and families.
May 13, 9-10:30 a.m.
The Possible Levels of Participation: Understanding and Implementing Participative Management
presented by Cathy Keasler (TL)
Early Childhood Leadership requires more than just managing staff, it involves fostering a culture of shared decision-making and professional growth. This interactive training explores the four levels of participation and provides early childhood administrators with strategies to determine and implement the appropriate level of staff involvement in decision-making. Participants will engage in discussions, hands-on activities, and real-world scenarios to understand how participative management can enhance workplace culture, increase educator engagement, and improve PAS (Program Administration Scale) scores.
May 19, 1-2:30 p.m.
FCC Providers are Teachers, Too! Presenting Yourself as a Professional to Others in the Profession and in the Community
presented by Angie Wendt (DL)
In the realm of early childhood education, FCC providers play a pivotal role in nurturing and educating young children. This training is designed to empower and elevate the status of FCC providers by emphasizing the importance of professionalism in their role.
May 20, 9-10:30 a.m.
Performance Appraisal Systems: Developing and Implementing Evaluation Tools
presented by Alecia Taylor (DL)
Discover how to design and implement a performance appraisal system specifically tailored for early childhood education settings. This session will guide you through developing clear and effective evaluation criteria, conducting fair and meaningful assessments, and aligning appraisals with staff professional development goals. By the end of the training, you’ll have the tools to create a performance appraisal process that not only enhances staff performance but also supports their growth, ensuring continuous improvement in the quality of care and education.
June Sessions
June 3, 9-10:30 a.m.
Thrive to Lead: The Power of Self-Care for Early Learning Leaders
presented by Laurie Ball (TL)
This session offers early learning administrators practical tools and strategies to manage stress and integrate self-care into their daily routines. By prioritizing personal well-being, administrators will not only improve their health but also enhance their leadership effectiveness. Participants will learn actionable techniques for reducing burnout, maintaining balance, and fostering resilience, empowering them to lead with clarity and confidence while creating a positive work environment for their teams.
June 9, 1:30-3 p.m.
Engaging Voices: A Plan for Gathering Feedback from ECE Staff and Families
presented by Amy Anderson (TL)
This session aims to develop a structured approach for gathering and utilizing feedback from staff and families at your early learning program. We will explore methods to create effective communication channels that encourage input and suggestions. The goal is to enhance the program’s environment by actively listening to the needs and perspectives of both staff and families, leading to ongoing improvements and a more collaborative atmosphere.
June 10, 9-10:30 a.m.
Professional Development Roadmap: Finding the Right Opportunities for Your Team
presented by Debra Flynn (EL)
Learn how to identify and leverage high-quality, affordable, or free professional development resources for your ECE team, including state, national, and online options. Additionally, develop the skills to design customized PD sessions that address the unique needs of your program, utilizing in-house expertise, community partnerships, and cost-effective tools to ensure meaningful growth and impact.
June 16, 9-10:30 a.m.
Building Strong Teams with Effective Communication
presented by Jane Moldenhauer (EL)
Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful leadership and team collaboration in early childhood education. In this session, administrators will explore strength-based communication techniques designed to foster positive, productive conversations within their teams. Participants will engage in self-reflection activities to assess their current communication practices and identify growth opportunities. Through interactive discussions, attendees will learn how to use these communication strategies to enhance team building, collaboration, and overall program success. The session will also provide valuable resources and tools that can be immediately applied in your program to strengthen team dynamics and promote a positive organizational culture.
June 17, 9-10 a.m.
Mocha with MO-SECA – EC Energize: Teambuilding (1 clock hour)
presented by Jennifer Biles (EL, DL, TL)
Strong teams are built through trust, connection, and shared purpose—and leaders play a critical role in shaping those relationships. In this energizing Community of Practice (CoP) session, ECE administrators will explore team-building strategies that foster collaboration, strengthen workplace culture, and support staff well-being. Participants will reflect on their current team dynamics, identify opportunities to build stronger connections, and share real-world practices that promote engagement and morale. Join us to discover how intentional team-building efforts can create a positive, supportive environment where educators feel valued, connected, and motivated to grow together.
June 23, 1:30-3 p.m.
Policies That Stick: Moving from Paper to Practice
presented by Katie Diemler (DL)
Policies That Stick: Moving from Paper to Practice supports early childhood administrators in transforming written policies into shared, consistent daily practice. Policies are essential for compliance and clarity, but many early childhood programs struggle to ensure staff and families truly understand and apply them. This session explores why policies often fail to “stick” and provides practical strategies to simplify expectations, reinforce consistency, and strengthen accountability without increasing burnout.
Virtual Course Descriptions
Each training is organized into and labeled with tier levels of Emerging Leader (EL), Developing Leader (DL) and Transformational Leader (TL) for you to easily see which training might be the right fit for you.
- Emerging Leader – an aspiring or new leader as they assume a leadership position or role seeking to build a foundation of skills needed to become an effective leader.
- Developing Leaders – a leader early to mid-career who continues to advance his/her knowledge and skills seeking to better themselves for the betterment of others.
- Transformational Leaders – professional leader with a growth mindset who contributes as a leader to the early childhood community and beyond.
April Sessions
April 7, 9-10 a.m.
Mocha with MO-SECA – EC Energize: Marketing/Recruiting (1 clock hour) presented by Jennifer Biles (EL, DL, TL)
Attracting and recruiting qualified educators requires more than posting a job opening—it requires a clear message, intentional outreach, and a strong program identity.
In this energizing Community of Practice (CoP) session, ECE administrators will explore effective marketing and recruiting strategies designed specifically for early childhood programs.
Participants will reflect on how their program is currently represented, identify opportunities to strengthen recruitment efforts, and share practical tools for attracting candidates who align with their mission and values. Join us to learn how intentional marketing and strategic recruiting can help build a strong, committed workforce that supports long-term program success.
April 7, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Get to Know MO-SECA (1 clock hour)
presented by Melissa Roach (EL)
Are you familiar with MO-SECA? Missouri Supporting Early Childhood Administrators (MO-SECA) engages early childhood program administrators to develop knowledge, skills, and connections needed to effectively lead and operate sustainable, quality programs. Come learn how this dynamic program combines 1:1 coaching support with specially designed professional development to create a space where administrators thrive.
April 8, 1:30-3 p.m.
Applying the Tools of Leadershop Essentials
presented by Amy Anderson (EL)
This training offers early learning administrators knowledge of the foundational tools and strategies of effective leadership. Participants will explore key leadership principles such as communication, team building, motivation, and decision-making. Through practical exercises, administrators will learn how to lead with confidence, foster a culturally competent center, and inspire their teams to deliver high-quality care. Emphasis will be placed on applying these leadership tools to the real-world of early education. By the end of the session, participants will be empowered to lead with purpose, creating environments that thrive on trust, respect, and collaboration.
April 14, noon-1:30 p.m.
Leveraging Community Resources to Enhance ECE Programs
presented by Carrie McKee (EL)
In this engaging session, administrators will explore practical strategies for identifying, accessing, and integrating community resources into their early childhood programs. Participants will learn how to build meaningful connections with local organizations, healthcare providers, and social services to better support children and families. Through real-world examples and actionable insights, the session will guide attendees in navigating available resources and incorporating them into their programs to enhance quality and effectiveness. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with tools and strategies to establish lasting community partnerships that strengthen their program offerings and address the diverse needs of families.
April 15, noon-1:30 p.m.
Filling Buckets: Strength-Based Leadershop for Creating a Culture of Trust and Emotional Safety in the ECE Workplace – Part Two
presented by Dana Harper (DL)
The second session in this series on “How Full is Your Bucket?” explores the strategies to Prevent Bucket Dipping, Shine a Light on What’s Right, and Make Best Friends. Administrators will learn how to reduce negative “dips,” acknowledge what is going right, and develop a trusting ECE work environment. Through discussion and practical skill-building activities, participants learn how consistent positive interactions uplift teams, reduce burnout, and reinforce a culture where every staff member feels valued. This session builds on the skills gained from Part One by shifting toward outward-facing leadership practices.
April 21, noon-1:30 p.m.
The Growth Mindset in ECE: Nurturing Educators and Programs
presented by Melissa Roach (TL)
Learn how cultivating a growth mindset in yourself, your staff, and your program can inspire innovation, encourage continuous improvement, and build resilience. This approach fosters a culture of learning and adaptability, empowering everyone to thrive and overcome challenges in early childhood education.
April 22, 9-10:30 a.m.
Facility Focus: The Importance of Documentation for Routine Maintenance
presented by Cheryl Maybrier (DL)
During this training, we will look at examples of routine maintenance within ECE facilities, along with the importance of having documentation in place to ensure the safety and well-being of staff, families, and the facility. We will discuss and deepen our understanding of how completing maintenance effectively reduces risk within the program and enhances child outcomes.
April 28, 9-10:30 a.m.
Communicating Salary Scales Transparently
presented by Temple Baxley (TL)
A well-structured salary scale is more than just a compensation tool—it’s a critical factor in staff retention, motivation, and the overall wellness of your ECE program. This training will explore how clear and transparent salary structures support business stability, enhance staff growth and development, and build trust within your team. Learn strategies for effectively communicating salary scales and compensation practices to ensure fairness, equity, and long-term program sustainability. By fostering transparency, you can create an environment where educators feel valued, supported, and committed to your organization’s success.
May Sessions
May 6, noon-1:30 p.m.
The Impact of Effective Hiring and Onboarding Processes – Part One
presented by Dana Harper (EL)
This session will guide early childhood administrators through the hiring process from start to finish with a focus on how thoughtful, intentional practices impact program quality and children’s daily experiences. We will reflect on how recruitment, interviewing, and selection influence staff morale, classroom climate, and family trust. Using items from the Program Administration Scale (PAS-3) as a reference, we will identify key indicators of strong human resource practices and discuss how to apply them in real program settings. Participants will engage in collaborative discussions to exchange strategies currently working in their centers and explore resources designed to streamline hiring practices.
May 12, 9-10:30 a.m.
The Impact of Effective Hiring and Onboarding Processes – Part Two
presented by Amy Drury (EL)
In this follow-up session, we will focus on developing a comprehensive orientation policy tailored to the early learning setting. We will explore how clear expectations, supportive onboarding, and intentional introductions help new teachers and staff quickly integrate into program culture, support continuity of care, and improve classroom stability for children. Drawing from the PAS-3 items on human resources and staff orientation, we will examine best practices that lead to higher retention and reduced turnover in early learning programs. Participants will also have dedicated time to connect with peers, share real success stories from their centers, and reflect on challenges, creating a network of support for building stronger staff foundations that directly benefit children and families.
May 13, 9-10:30 a.m.
The Possible Levels of Participation: Understanding and Implementing Participative Management
presented by Cathy Keasler (TL)
Early Childhood Leadership requires more than just managing staff, it involves fostering a culture of shared decision-making and professional growth. This interactive training explores the four levels of participation and provides early childhood administrators with strategies to determine and implement the appropriate level of staff involvement in decision-making. Participants will engage in discussions, hands-on activities, and real-world scenarios to understand how participative management can enhance workplace culture, increase educator engagement, and improve PAS (Program Administration Scale) scores.
May 19, 1-2:30 p.m.
FCC Providers are Teachers, Too! Presenting Yourself as a Professional to Others in the Profession and in the Community
presented by Angie Wendt (DL)
In the realm of early childhood education, FCC providers play a pivotal role in nurturing and educating young children. This training is designed to empower and elevate the status of FCC providers by emphasizing the importance of professionalism in their role.
May 20, 9-10:30 a.m.
Performance Appraisal Systems: Developing and Implementing Evaluation Tools
presented by Alecia Taylor (DL)
Discover how to design and implement a performance appraisal system specifically tailored for early childhood education settings. This session will guide you through developing clear and effective evaluation criteria, conducting fair and meaningful assessments, and aligning appraisals with staff professional development goals. By the end of the training, you’ll have the tools to create a performance appraisal process that not only enhances staff performance but also supports their growth, ensuring continuous improvement in the quality of care and education.
June Sessions
June 3, 9-10:30 a.m.
Thrive to Lead: The Power of Self-Care for Early Learning Leaders
presented by Laurie Ball (TL)
This session offers early learning administrators practical tools and strategies to manage stress and integrate self-care into their daily routines. By prioritizing personal well-being, administrators will not only improve their health but also enhance their leadership effectiveness. Participants will learn actionable techniques for reducing burnout, maintaining balance, and fostering resilience, empowering them to lead with clarity and confidence while creating a positive work environment for their teams.
June 9, 1:30-3 p.m.
Engaging Voices: A Plan for Gathering Feedback from ECE Staff and Families
presented by Amy Anderson (TL)
This session aims to develop a structured approach for gathering and utilizing feedback from staff and families at your early learning program. We will explore methods to create effective communication channels that encourage input and suggestions. The goal is to enhance the program’s environment by actively listening to the needs and perspectives of both staff and families, leading to ongoing improvements and a more collaborative atmosphere.
June 10, 9-10:30 a.m.
Professional Development Roadmap: Finding the Right Opportunities for Your Team
presented by Debra Flynn (EL)
Learn how to identify and leverage high-quality, affordable, or free professional development resources for your ECE team, including state, national, and online options. Additionally, develop the skills to design customized PD sessions that address the unique needs of your program, utilizing in-house expertise, community partnerships, and cost-effective tools to ensure meaningful growth and impact.
June 16, 9-10:30 a.m.
Building Strong Teams with Effective Communication
presented by Jane Moldenhauer (EL)
Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful leadership and team collaboration in early childhood education. In this session, administrators will explore strength-based communication techniques designed to foster positive, productive conversations within their teams. Participants will engage in self-reflection activities to assess their current communication practices and identify growth opportunities. Through interactive discussions, attendees will learn how to use these communication strategies to enhance team building, collaboration, and overall program success. The session will also provide valuable resources and tools that can be immediately applied in your program to strengthen team dynamics and promote a positive organizational culture.
June 17, 9-10 a.m.
Mocha with MO-SECA – EC Energize: Teambuilding (1 clock hour)
presented by Jennifer Biles (EL, DL, TL)
Strong teams are built through trust, connection, and shared purpose—and leaders play a critical role in shaping those relationships. In this energizing Community of Practice (CoP) session, ECE administrators will explore team-building strategies that foster collaboration, strengthen workplace culture, and support staff well-being. Participants will reflect on their current team dynamics, identify opportunities to build stronger connections, and share real-world practices that promote engagement and morale. Join us to discover how intentional team-building efforts can create a positive, supportive environment where educators feel valued, connected, and motivated to grow together.
June 23, 1:30-3 p.m.
Policies That Stick: Moving from Paper to Practice
presented by Katie Diemler (DL)
Policies That Stick: Moving from Paper to Practice supports early childhood administrators in transforming written policies into shared, consistent daily practice. Policies are essential for compliance and clarity, but many early childhood programs struggle to ensure staff and families truly understand and apply them. This session explores why policies often fail to “stick” and provides practical strategies to simplify expectations, reinforce consistency, and strengthen accountability without increasing burnout.
