The recent Directors’ Community of Practice meeting brought together early childhood leaders from across Cuyahoga County for a meaningful conversation centered on workforce development, educational advancement, leadership connection, and community collaboration.
The event drew strong engagement from administrators representing programs throughout the community. The level of participation reflected an ongoing need for collaborative leadership spaces where directors can learn from one another, access resources, and build sustainable professional networks.
This session focused on strengthening the early childhood workforce through educational opportunities, scholarship pathways, leadership networking, and community partnerships. Presenters from organizations across the region shared practical resources and inspiring stories that reinforced a powerful message: when we invest in the people leading early childhood programs, we strengthen the entire system for children and families.
The event featured presentations from Judith Santmire, Chief Operating Officer at Ohio Child Care Resource & Referral Association, and Latoya Fuqua, T.E.A.C.H. Scholarship Counselor at Ohio Child Care Resource & Referral Association, who shared information regarding the T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® Scholarship Program and the educational pathways available for early childhood professionals pursuing CDA credentials, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees in early childhood education. Attendees received updated information on scholarship eligibility, educational supports, and opportunities designed to reduce barriers for those advancing their education while continuing to work in the field.
One of the most impactful moments of the event came from Courtney Nerad, Administrator at St. Peter’s Child Care, who shared her firsthand experience as a former T.E.A.C.H. scholarship recipient. Her story highlighted not only the personal impact of educational support, but also the ripple effect these opportunities can have within programs through staff retention, leadership development, and increased confidence among educators.
Leaders also heard from Dorota Tomaszewska, Director at Cleveland Sight Center, who discussed ongoing community partnership efforts and future planning related to early childhood services. Her presentation encouraged providers to engage in collaborative conversations about community needs and the importance of responsive, relationship-based support systems for children and families.
The continued growth of the Directors’ Community of Practice network speaks to the importance of intentional leadership support within the early childhood profession. Early childhood directors are not only managing programs; they are shaping workplace culture, mentoring educators, supporting families, advocating for children, and helping build the future of the workforce itself.
Strong leadership in early childhood education does not happen in isolation. It grows through connection, collaboration, encouragement, and access to meaningful support systems.
Stephanie Moore, Training Coordinator at Starting Point, provided updates regarding CDA programming and upcoming professional development opportunities available through Starting Point. Administrators were encouraged to explore accessible pathways that support continued professional growth and educational advancement for both themselves and their staff.
Questions regarding the T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® Scholarship Program can be directed to Ohio Child Care Resource & Referral Association at (614) 396 5959 or by email at workforcedevelopment@occrra.org
Those interested in learning more about Starting Point’s CDA program can contact Starting Point at (216) 575 0061.
Mark your calendars for the next Directors’ Community of Practice meeting taking place on August 19. We look forward to continuing the conversation, strengthening connections, and supporting one another as leaders in the early childhood field.
Get Involved
Interested in leading a discussion, sharing your tips and strategies, or suggesting a topic you would like the group to explore? We welcome director voices and collaborative leadership.
To present at an upcoming Directors’ Community of Practice session or to join our DCP email list for meeting updates and announcements, please contact Mandi Tronconis at Amanda.Tronconis@starting-point.org.
We look forward to continuing to grow this community together.
