This spring, Early Childhood Networks and Scholarship and Pay Incentive program staff attended conferences and returned with valuable insights to strengthen their work.
NMAEYC Annual Conference | April 10-11, 2026 | Albuquerque
Staff presented on how programs support recruitment, retention, and professional growth of early childhood educators.
Key takeaways: educators valued scholarship support for completing degrees, while concerns emerged regarding the recognition of work experience and barriers to higher education.
National Early Childhood Workforce Convening | April 13-17, 2026 | Chapel Hill, NC
Staff presented statewide educator support programs, including mentorship, scholarships, wage supplements, and professional networks.
Key takeaways: New Mexico is seen as a national leader in early childhood investment, with attendees interested in how the state funds its programs.
ECECD Multilingual Convening | April 16-17, 2026 | Albuquerque
The third annual convening brought together educators and stakeholders to discuss the needs of multilingual programs. Staff presented bilingual support programs, and Infant-Toddler Teacher Network Lead Diana Bravo participated in a panel.
Key takeaways: strong program interest, with feedback on accessibility and inclusion to inform future program planning. In early childhood education, learning never stops. Get support with mentorship and professional growth: Early Childhood Networks
In early childhood education, learning never stops. Get support with mentorship and professional growth: Early Childhood Networks