Early childhood educators from across the region are invited to attend the Growing Together for Early Learning Success Early Childhood Conference, a one-day professional development event designed to inspire new ideas, strengthen teaching practices, and build connections among educators dedicated to supporting young learners.
The conference will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at New College Institute and will feature interactive learning sessions, practical classroom strategies, and networking opportunities for early childhood professionals.
The New College Institute is partnering with Henry County Public Schools, HighScope, and United Way of Henry County and Martinsville in bringing this event to the region, helping provide educators with access to high-quality professional development and resources that support early learning success.
“This conference reflects the power of collaboration in our community,” said Joe Sumner, Executive Director of New College Institute. “Through our partnership with Henry County Public Schools and our work to expand access to high-quality educational programming in the region, we are proud to host events like this that support early childhood educators and ultimately benefit the youngest learners in our communities.”
Participants will engage in hands-on workshops and discussions focused on strategies they can immediately implement in their classrooms and programs. The conference is designed to empower educators with tools that support early childhood development while strengthening collaboration across the local early learning community.
“We are excited about this conference, where speakers and attendees will unite to share inspiring stories and experiences that showcase the significant impact our work has on children’s lives in our community,” said Melanie McLarty, Director of Early Learning Strategies for United Way of Henry County and Martinsville. “With engaging sessions and valuable networking opportunities, this event promises to promote meaningful professional growth!”
The event will also feature a keynote presentation from Kenneth Sherman, Director of Global Initiatives and Marketing at HighScope Educational Research Foundation. Sherman is widely recognized for his work supporting early childhood educators and advancing high-quality early learning practices around the world.
“This conference is about bringing our community together to support the educators who make a lasting difference in the lives of young children,” said Denise Fultz, Preschool Coordinator for Henry County Public Schools. “By providing opportunities for professional learning, collaboration, and inspiration, we’re investing in the future of our students and strengthening early childhood education across our region.”
Early childhood teachers, childcare providers, program directors, and other education professionals are encouraged to attend.
Registration is now open, and space is limited. Educators interested in attending are encouraged to register soon to secure their spot: https://highscope.zohobackstage.com/GrowingTogetherforEarlyLearningSuccess?fbclid=IwY2xjawQWhDlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFBTDFsbDY0eXJIS1A1bTRJc3J0YWZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHoqLzJWDeawKWi7zcgvcmiBOoagDX9-qjGdF_AE-e6icvIxlTHoxpTneZEwd_aem_ct9q-E2223eJtB4Zbmke2g.
