Classes

Upcoming Classes

Building a Strong Foundation in Early Literacy

Date:

July 2, 2025

Time:

5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

This instructor-led course provides foundational content focused on emergent literacy skills and instruction. This course is most appropriate for directors, new VPK instructors and/or preschool instructors who are new to early childhood education. Participants will learn about the importance of developmentally appropriate practices to support children as they develop emergent literacy skills (alphabet and print knowledge, language and vocabulary, phonological awareness and emergent writing). This course consists of three learning components: the online or instructor-led component, a lesson planning and practice component, and a virtual reflection session. This course meets 5 hours of the emergent literacy course requirement for VPK educators. Upon completion of all three learning components participants will receive 5 hours/.5 CEU credits.

Participants must register via DCF

Florida Early Childhood Professional Development Registry

Understanding CLASS Observation Expectations for Providers

Component 1: Instructor-led

Date:

July 17, 2025

Time:

1:00 pm to 2:30 pm

This session will provide an overview of the key expectations and requirements for providers undergoing a CLASS observation. Topics will include an explanation of CLASS rules and guidelines, the importance of QPS (Quality Performance System) registration, and step-by-step preparation strategies to ensure a smooth and successful observation process. Providers will also learn about observation timelines, communication protocols, and what to expect during and after the observation. This information is vital for maintaining compliance, improving CLASS scores, and supporting overall program quality.

The Language of CLASS

Date:

July 29, 2025

Time:

6:00pm to 9:00pm

This session provides knowledge of resources and helpful strategies that align with the Florida Early Learning and Developmental Standards (FELDS), encourages teacher-child interactions and helps educators identify ways to improve their instructional practices.

Strengthening Daily Attendance in Early Learning Programs

Date:

July 31, 2025

Time:

1:00pm to 2:00pm

This training is designed to equip childcare providers and educators with effective strategies to promote and improve daily attendance in early learning settings. Participants will explore the short- and long-term impacts of consistent attendance on child development, school readiness, and academic success. We will also introduce the Perfect Attendance Toolkit—a practical, ready-to-use resource that includes seasonal letters, email templates, parent reminders, and creative classroom ideas to engage families and reinforce the importance of showing up every day. By the end of the session, providers will leave with actionable tools and ideas to support a culture of attendance in their programs.

Creating Effective Strategies to Start your Year

Date:

August 5, 2025

Time:

6:00pm to 8:00pm

This session is highly recommended for all providers preparing for a CLASS® observation, including directors, administrators, and teachers. Attendance will ensure a clear understanding of expectations and provide valuable tools for success.

Hart Memorial Library

211 East Dakin Ave Kissimmee, FL 34741

Building a Strong Foundation in Early Literacy

Component 2: Lesson Planning and Practice

Date:

August 11, 2025

Time:

1:00 pm to 4:00 pm

This instructor-led course provides foundational content focused on emergent literacy skills and instruction. This course is most appropriate for directors, new VPK instructors and/or preschool instructors who are new to early childhood education. Participants will learn about the importance of developmentally appropriate practices to support children as they develop emergent literacy skills (alphabet and print knowledge, language and vocabulary, phonological awareness and emergent writing).

Participants must register via DCF

Florida Early Childhood Professional Development Registry

CLASS Overview Pre-K/VPK

Date:

August 21, 2025

Time:

6:00pm to 8:00pm

This session provides an introduction to the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS®) for Pre-K. Participants will learn about the tool’s structure, its focus on teacher-child interactions, and how it supports improved outcomes in early childhood classrooms. The overview highlights the three CLASS® domains—Emotional Support, Classroom Organization, and Instructional Support—and their impact on children's learning and development.

CLASS Overview I-T

Date:

September 4, 2025

Time:

6:00pm to 8:00pm

This session offers an introduction to the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS®) for Infant and Toddler age groups. Participants will explore how responsive, engaging interactions between caregivers and young children support healthy development. The overview covers the key domains and dimensions unique to each age group and highlights how CLASS® helps improve the quality of care in early learning environments.

Building a Strong Foundation in Early Literacy

Component 3: Virtual Reflection

Date:

September 22, 2025

Time:

10:00am to 1:00pm

This instructor-led course provides foundational content focused on emergent literacy skills and instruction. This course is most appropriate for directors, new VPK instructors and/or preschool instructors who are new to early childhood education. Participants will learn about the importance of developmentally appropriate practices to support children as they develop emergent literacy skills (alphabet and print knowledge, language and vocabulary, phonological awareness and emergent writing).

Participants must register via DCF

Florida Early Childhood Professional Development Registry

Relationships Matter! 

Date:

September 25, 2025

Time:

6:00pm to 8:00pm

Positive relationships matter! In this training, we will talk about how to create meaningful connections. We will also learn how to maintain those relationships. Through hands on training, we will also learn how to have hard conversations. Finally, you'll learn how meaningful connections help make your business and families better. 

The Language of CLASS

Date:

September 29, 2025

Time:

1:00pm to 3:00pm

This session provides knowledge of resources and helpful strategies that align with the Florida Early Learning and Developmental Standards (FELDS), encourages teacher-child interactions and helps educators identify ways to improve their instructional practices.