The Iowa Department of Education is offering several professional learning opportunities throughout the year for early childhood educators and administrators in Iowa. All learning sessions are free of charge for participants.

Hosted by the Department's Bureau of Early Childhood, these professional learning events cover different areas of interest, including assessment and data decisions, curriculum and instruction, leadership, program and learning standards and more. Early childhood educators, assistant teachers, program administrators, directors, coordinators, curriculum specialists, instructional coaches and home visiting providers are welcome to join the sessions that are applicable to their work in early care, health and education.

Registration is now open to attend the learning opportunities, listed below. Details on specific session times and target audiences can be found within the registration details.

Iowa Quality Preschool Program Standards (IQPPS) Overview and Impact to Implementation

• The session provides early childhood educators and administrators with a broad understanding of the revised Iowa Quality Preschool Program Standards and supports intentional planning for successful implementation. This virtual learning event is offered at various times on Sept. 2 and Sept. 9.

Preschool Basics: Building a Strong Start

• The introductory training is designed to equip new preschool teachers with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to create engaging, inclusive classrooms that support every learner. Delivered through a hybrid of synchronous and asynchronous learning, the program spans the school year and includes nine live virtual learning sessions along with self-paced assignments.

4th Edition Iowa Early Learning Standards (IELS) for Program Leadership

• The interactive virtual training helps program leaders distinguish between learning standards, program standards and curriculum. Participants will connect with fellow administrators and will receive foundational tools to help guide their program through implementation of the revised IELS. Program leaders are welcome to register for the session on Sept. 17 or Oct. 7.

GOLD Administrators and Coaches: Using Data to Support Children, Families and Teachers

• Facilitated by Teaching Strategies and Department team members, this virtual professional learning opportunity explores how implementing the GOLD assessment with fidelity provides meaningful information that supports families, improves child outcomes, strengthens reflective teaching practices and informs data-based decision-making. This training is offered as a full-day session on Sept. 30 or two half-day sessions on Nov. 5 and Nov. 12.

Peer Mediation: Coaching to Success
● The training series provides participants with opportunities to deepen their understanding of peer-mediated strategies that intentionally pair children with strong social and communication skills with peers who benefit from additional support. Participants will explore how to implement these evidence-based strategies effectively in early childhood settings and learn how to coach educators and support children in using these practices with fidelity. This three-part series will convene on Sept. 22, 2026, Jan. 19, 2027, and April 27, 2027. Participants must commit to attending all three dates.

Additionally, the Bureau of Early Childhood team is offering virtual preschool office hours to answer specific questions and provide technical assistance to educators and administrators. Office hours will be held on the following topics:

• SmartTeach GOLD and Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program Requirements - Sept. 8, 1-2 p.m.
• IQPPS Desk Audit Support Session #1 - Sept. 29, 1-2 p.m.
• Early Childhood Special Education Updates and ACHIEVE - Oct. 13, 1-2 p.m.
• IQPPS Desk Audit Support Session #2 - Oct. 27, 1-2 p.m.
• Iowa Early Learning Standards - Nov. 10, 1-2 p.m.
• IQPPS Desk Audit Support Session #3 - Nov. 24, 1 -2 p.m.

To learn more information on these exciting opportunities focused on early care, health and education, visit the Department's Early Childhood Professional Learning webpage.

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