Leading with Purpose: How Empowered Leaders Elevate Interactions and Impact Classrooms

Leadership in early childhood education is more than managing tasks—it is about purpose, intentionality, and the ability to empower others. The impact of leadership reaches far beyond administrative responsibilities; it affects educators, classrooms, children, families, and the community at large. Leaders who guide with purpose create systems that foster growth, trust, and meaningful interactions, supporting educators in their professional development and elevating teacher–child interactions, which ultimately shape children’s experiences and outcomes. Led by Lee Ann Vega, Interim Director You Thrive Florida

Beyond the Ripple: Cultivating Empathy from Teachers to Children

You are invited to join us this back to school season and explore how empathy cultivated in coaching relationships flows into educator–child interactions. Participants will discover how to intentionally model empathy, validate emotions, and celebrate kindness in everyday classroom routines. Through real case studies, guided reflection, and small-group discussion, attendees will learn how to use CLASS dimensions: Teacher Sensitivity, Positive Climate, and Regard for Child Perspectives, to strengthen emotional connections and child outcomes. Together, we’ll explore how early experiences of care and understanding lay the foundation for lifelong social-emotional learning. The session highlights the intersection of empathy and cultural responsiveness, showing how emotionally attuned teaching supports inclusion, belonging, and connection across diverse communities. Led by Marjorie Rizzo, Education Manager Early Learning Coalition of Broward County With over a decade in early childhood education, Marjorie Rizzo currently serves as the Education Manager at the Early Learning Coalition of Broward County in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where she leads a team of dedicated education specialists. As an Infant-Toddler Developmental Specialist, she is committed to creating responsive, inclusive early learning environments. Marjorie began her career in early childhood as a special education teacher for infants and toddlers before transitioning to healthcare, where she coached families and medical teams and led Continuous Quality Improvement initiatives. After seven years, she returned to early childhood, overseeing coaching teams for both federally and locally funded programs. Diagnosed with dyslexia as a child, she brings a personal understanding of learning diversity and resilience, along with a unique cultural perspective as a first-generation American with Nicaraguan heritage. Marjorie holds a Bachelor’s in Communications, a Master’s in Public Administration, and certifications as an Affiliate Pre-K CLASS Trainer, CLASS Observer for all three tools, two coaching credentials, and a DEI certification from the University of South Florida. A published writer with over 60 bylines for The Miami Herald, she is passionate about empowering educators to create supportive, impactful spaces where young learners can thrive.

Using CLASS® to Promote Positive Social and Emotional Behavior in Young Learners

Join us this back to school season for a webinar, Using CLASS® to Promote Positive Social and Emotional Behavior in Young Learners! Together, we'll explore behavior guidance and management within early childhood settings.We will also spend time reviewing key indicators and behavior markers to gain a clear understanding of effective classroom practices. You'll leave with strategies for teaching social emotional skills while modeling positive behavior, which will help educators create nurturing learning environments for the children in their care. Led by Crystal Allen, Director, Early Childhood East Baton Rouge Parish School System Crystal Allen is a Louisiana native, mother of three, and a passionate leader in early childhood education with 20 years of experience. She has held roles ranging from classroom teacher to district instructional specialist and mentor coach. Since 2018, Crystal has been an integral part of the early childhood department and currently serves as the Director of Early Childhood for the East Baton Rouge Parish School System