Course curriculum

  • 1

    Welcome

    • Course Overview
  • 2

    Understanding the Map – What is Professional Development in ECE?

    • The Big Picture

    • Defining Professional Development

    • The Purpose Behind PD

    • The Two Roads: Compliance vs. Growth-Oriented PD

    • Adult Learning Theory in Early Childhood PD

    • PD as a Journey, Not a Destination
  • 3

    Keystone STARS – Building Quality Through Staff Qualifications

    • What is Keystone STARS? A Quick Overview

    • Why Staff Qualifications Matter

    • STAR 2: The Foundation of Staff Professionalism

    • STAR 3 & 4: Advancing Staff Excellence

    • Wrap-Up Thought
  • 4

    Keystone STARS – Building Quality Through PD

    • STAR 2 – PD Foundations

    • STAR 3–4 – Building Systems for PD

    • Did you know?

    • Linking PD to Career Pathway & CQI

    • Why Link PD to Career Pathway & CQI?
  • 5

    PD Plans and Self-Assessment– The GPS for Growth

    • Overview

    • Steps for Creating a Strong IPDP

    • Best Practices for IPDP Implementation

    • Thoughts
  • 6

    The Career Pathway – PA Keys Levels Demystified

    • What Is the PA ECE Career Pathway?

    • Career Pathway

    • The Levels: From Entry to Advanced

    • Applying, Renewing & Updating the Pathway

    • Why It Matters & How It Connects to Quality Improvement
  • 7

    NAEYC Standards – Professionalism & Continuous Growth

    • What Is Professionalism in Early Childhood?

    • NAEYC Professional Standards Connection

    • Connections to Keystone STARS & PA Keys

    • What Professionalism Looks Like in Practice

    • Continuous Growth Strategies
  • 8

    Best Practices in Staff Development

    • Ground PD in Adult Learning Theory

    • Use Multiple Pathways for Growth

    • Align Staff Development with Program Goals

    • Foster a Culture of Coaching and Mentoring

    • Make PD Inclusive and Equitable

    • Follow Through with Reflection & Application

    • Track, Celebrate, and Incentivize Growth
  • 9

    The Journey Continues – Committing to Growth

    • Key Takeaways from the Training

    • Action Plan: From Training to Practice

    • Closing Message