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Leading in Early Childhood Education

Leadership, Empowerment, Advocacy & Development

A collaborative initiative providing leadership training, business tools, and peer support for childcare directors and owners.
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Impact

LEAD in Action

LEAD offers a collaborative space for Directors, Center Owners and Family Child Care Owners to share ideas and enhance their leadership skills. Through ongoing learning, practical tools, and peer support, LEAD helps leaders develop sustainable programs and confident practices.

500+

Leaders Trained

+.25
Program Quality Improvement
*90%
Reach Accreditation

*Programs participating in Accreditation Academy

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Leadership Development
Community Support
Operational Guidance
benefits

Practical Support for
Real-World Leadership

Whether you're seeking professional growth, peer support, or practical tools, LEAD is here to help you thrive as a leader and strengthen your program.

Leadership Development

Interactive learning focused on leadership, staff retention, and communication.

Business Operations Management

Practical tools for budgeting, policies, enrollment management, and sustainability.

Community & Mentorship

Peer collaboration through Communities of Practice and leadership networking.
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Program Quality & Accreditation

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Guidance and preparation for quality improvement and accreditation pathways.

Testimonials

What Our Leaders Say

Let me tell you, if it weren't for the Accreditation Academy, I don't believe I would have done it. Like I said, many years ago, I ordered the books for Accreditation, got frustrated and gave up. That class was absolutely wonderful! Again, I just want to say how grateful I am for you guys!
 Sandy, Owner of Keystone Children's Academy

These sessions have provided not only professional growth but also a strong sense of connection and shared purpose. Thank you for creating a space where leadership development, collaboration, and continuous learning are prioritized. I look forward to continuing to be part of LEAD and contributing to its growth. 
 Tosha, Principal American Youth Academy

Our Programs

Programs Designed for Your Success

Shine a light on learning that fits your schedule and fuels your goals!
Book STudy

Art of Leadership Book Study

Dive into the dynamic world of leadership principles with guided reading and engaging peer discussions!
Community

Director's Community of Practice

Join our supportive group of business leaders for shared learning and innovative problem solving!
Mentorship

Masterclass Series

Ignite your skills with engaging workshops on key business management topics led by industry experts!
Community

Accreditation Academy

Navigate the accreditation journey with mentorship and step-by-step guidance!

Support

Resource Hub

Training & Credentials

Accreditation & Certification 

Business Operations

Advocacy

General Information

GED

Florida General Educational Development

High school equivalency pathway for staff or leaders who need a secondary credential to qualify for employment, scholarships, or higher education in early childhood.
DCF

Florida Department of Children and Families - Credentials

Information on required training courses, staff credentials, and competency exams needed to meet Florida licensing and School Readiness/VPK personnel requirements.
T.E.A.C.H. Scholarship

T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood Education Scholarship

Scholarship program that helps early childhood staff pay for CDA, college coursework, books, and related education expenses while working in the field.
Training Registrty

Florida Early Childhood Professional Development Registry

The state workforce registry where early childhood educators create a professional profile, document employment history, and track verified training and credential records used for licensing compliance and program monitoring.
Professional Credential

Child Development Associate (CDA) – Council for Professional Recognition

Nationally recognized entry-level early childhood credential demonstrating competency in safe, developmentally appropriate teaching practices.
Approved agencies

FLDOE Approved Credential Evaluation Agencies

Agencies approved to review out-of-country or out-of-state education transcripts and determine their U.S. educational equivalency for credentialing.
Program Accreditation

Gold Seal Quality Care

State recognition for programs that earn an approved accreditation and meet higher quality standards; may provide licensing and School Readiness benefits.
Business Management

The Business & Leadership Institute for Early Learning (BLI)

Training and coaching that helps providers strengthen budgeting, operations, staffing, and program sustainability skills.
Business Management

SCORE: Small Business Services

Free mentoring and business tools from experienced professionals covering business planning, marketing, financial management, and growth strategies.
Community Data

U.S. Census Bureau Data

Community demographic and economic data useful for market analysis, expansion planning, and understanding local family needs.
Community Data

Hillsborough County Opportunity Zones

Information about designated areas eligible for potential investment incentives and economic development opportunities.
Advocacy Support

Child Care Aware® of America

 National organization providing research, policy updates, and family-focused resources related to child care access and quality.
Advocacy Support

Children's Board of Hillsborough County

Overview of local early childhood investments, community initiatives, and outcomes impacting children and families in the county.
Advocacy Support

ELCHC Advocacy for Early Learning

Local coalition updates, initiatives, and opportunities for providers to stay informed and engaged in early learning policy and funding discussions.
Advocacy Support

ELCHC Provider Resources

Operational guidance, forms, handbooks, and updates to help providers remain compliant with School Readiness and VPK program requirements.

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