Building Together: Implementing a New Statewide Professional Development System for Early Education and Care

• In Event: Roundtable Session 96
  In Roundtable Session: Professional Development and Leadership Learning Opportunities and Strategies

Abstract

Effective professional development systems are critical to improving the quality of early education and care (EEC). In 2010 Massachusetts created a new statewide integrated professional development system for the EEC workforce. This study examined the implementation of this new system, focusing on the structures and processes that were needed to implement this significant system change. Findings highlight the unique partnership the state created with regional professional development partnerships, and the successes and challenges of creating an integrated, cross-sector system. This study answers questions of policy importance to states that are working to develop more integrated professional development systems that are responsive to the needs of the diverse EEC workforce and translate into higher quality EEC environments for young children.

Authors

• Anne Douglass, University of Massachusetts - Boston

• Lucinda G. Heimer, Wheelock College

• Winifred Hagan, University of Massachusetts - Boston