Head Start WEST

Positive Solutions for Challenging Behaviors 5/6
2025-11-04 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Why
In Head Start WEST we see a substantial number of programs that seek strategies to address new and challenging behaviors this program year. “Adults often find children’s behaviors interesting and engaging. There are also behaviors that adults sometimes find challenging. For example, infants fuss or cry despite the adults’ efforts to comfort them or have different feeding or sleeping schedules. Toddlers sometimes hit, bite, fall to the floor, cry, kick, whine, or say “no.” Some preschoolers argue or fight over toys, struggle to follow directions, or become overly aggressive as they play. Toddlers and preschoolers may also have moments of energetic play, move quickly from activity to activity, or withdraw and not want to participate in activities. Often, these behaviors are developmentally appropriate, typical, and normal—and they change with support and social, emotional, and cognitive development.” – From the Office of Head Start, Head Start ECLKC
Positive Solutions for Challenging Behaviors training series is a series that offers Head Start, Early Head Start educators, coordinators and support staff strategies to address many of the challenges facing our educational environments.
This 3-week 6-part series takes a deep dive into understanding and managing challenging behaviors. Learners will walk away not only with a strengthened foundational understanding of challenging behaviors, but with tools, strategies, and interventions that they can immediately put into practice to increase social-emotional development and decrease challenging behaviors in the classroom.
Who
This series will target – Increase understanding and causes compassion fatigue, assess staff wellness and self-care, increase understanding of how challenging behaviors and work-related stressors can activate the body’s stress response system, recognize why challenging behaviors occur from a neurodevelopmental lens, and implement specific strategies to support with behaviors.
Where/When
Virtual/ Live- Zoom

Week one: October 21 & 23 : 2:00-4:00 PM

Week two: October 28 & 30 : 2:00-4:00 PM

Week three: November 4 & 6: 2:00-4:00 PM

Fees:
Member Pricing Full Access: $269.00 Per Person
Non Member Pricing Full Access: $299.00 Per Person
Questions? Contact us at msahagun@headstartwest.org.

Positive Solutions for Challenging Behaviors 6/6
2025-11-06 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual

Advanced Coaching Summit 1/3
2025-11-18 13:00 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles)
Why
For Head Start and Early Head Start programs, strong and effective coaches are especially critical. Advanced coaching not only supports professional growth and staff retention, it also improves practices in early childhood education and program operations. This creates stronger teams and ensures better outcomes for the children and families we serve.
Coaching has always been an important part of Head Start and Early Head Start, traditionally focused on education staff. However, coaching is valuable for every role within a program. When all staff have access to effective coaching, it encourages growth, strengthens skills, and leads to better outcomes for children and families.
Research consistently shows the impact of coaching:

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) found that 86% of companies investing in coaching reported a positive return on investment, while 62% of employees in those organizations felt highly engaged and committed to their work (ICF, 2016).
The Human Capital Institute reported that 60% of employees who receive coaching are more likely to stay with their organization, reducing costly turnover (HCI, 2018).

Who
This summit is designed for the full spectrum of agency leadership, including HR staff, Program Coaches, Coordinators, Supervisors, and Educators who are looking to amplify the impact of coaching across the classroom and throughout the agency.
What
Over the course of three days, participants will engage in interactive webinar sessions with three excellent facilitators. The Advanced Coaching Summit provides strategies for building effective coaching models, frameworks for structuring meaningful conversations, and practical tools for using data to guide coaching and support staff development. They will apply concepts directly to their programs—designing coaching agreements, practicing core coaching skills, and exploring data to inform actionable coaching moves.
Most importantly, participants leave with a deeper understanding of effective coaching, strengthened skills to engage staff across the agency, and the confidence to drive meaningful improvements in classroom practice, program operations, and outcomes for children and families.
When and Where
Virtua Via Zoom
November 18, 2025 | 1:00-4:30 PM
November 19, 2025 | 1:00-4:30 PM
November 20, 2025 | 1:00-4:00 PM
Fees
Member Pricing: $269.00 Per Person
Non Member Pricing: $299.00 Per Person
Questions? Contact us at msahagun@headstartwest.org.

Directors Exchange Network 11/19
2025-11-19 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
November 19th 1:00PM – Zoom Link Here
The Directors Exchange meetings are designed to create a space for executive directors, directors, and deputy directors to regularly connect, learn new skills, and strategize over effective practices to advance their programs. Directors Exchange meetings will consist of three meetings per year.
The goal of the Directors Exchange meetings is to nurture relationships among new and experienced directors, create a safe and collaborative environment for professional growth, and gain strategies to build high-impact organizations. In addition, these meetings will allow participants the opportunity to tour other agencies, meet with selected trainers and nurture professional friendship in an atmosphere of confidentiality and trust.
Facilitated by Cynthia Yao, these sessions take place every other month.

Advanced Coaching Summit 2/3
2025-11-19 13:00 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Online

Advanced Coaching Summit 3/3
2025-11-20 13:00 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Online

The Leadership Challenge 1/4
2025-12-01 14:00 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Why
Head Start and Early Head Start staff are challenged with juggling the needs of children, parents, and co-workers as well as the myriad of tasks necessary to meet performance standards and organizational goals. Our work is both urgent and fast passed as well as very emotional. Because of passion and determination, Head Start achieves great outcomes. Organizations that are high functioning believe strongly in the power of leadership is everyone’s business. From the director to the new assistant teacher, from accounting to family services, well-lead teams do extraordinary services for their constituents. The Head Start WEST (HSW) believes strongly in the notion that we must build strong agencies that sustain both clients and staff. Since 2016, we have set out to strengthen the leadership skills of staff. We regularly bring forward The Leadership Challenge Workshop, coaching utilizing the Leadership Practice Inventory, and ongoing networking of our leadership community.
Registration closes November 7, 2025
What
This workshop will give you superpowers—how to achieve the extraordinary while overcoming the overwhelming. A deep-dive program that is based upon The Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership, developed by Jim Kouzes and Berry Posner. Their Leadership Challenge Model is the most recognized standard of leadership excellence.
The course cohort meets will meet virtually December 1, 2, 8, and 9 at 2:00-4:30 PM . The class is a mix of lectures, discussions, small group work, and individual reflections. Pre-work is required to optimize the class experience.
Each attendee will receive the Leadership Practices Inventory, a 360 online leadership assessment. In addition, all attendees receive the hardback 6th edition of The Leadership Challenge, Participants Workbook, Value Cards, and related materials. Each attendee completes the course with an action plan and receives follow up coaching to implement goals
To learn more about the course, click here to hear from the facilitator.
Where
Virtual via Zoom
When
December 1, 2025 | 2:00-4:30 PM PT
December 2, 2025 | 2:00-4:30 PM PT
December 8, 2025 | 2:00-4:30 PM PT
December 9, 2025 | 2:00-4:30 PM PT
This course may also be contracted through individual agencies. If interested, please reach out to Edward Condon.
Who
HSW’s Executive Director, Edward Condon is a Certified Master Facilitator of The Leadership Challenge, a Wiley Brand. Since 2014, Edward has facilitated sessions serving almost 700 participants from Head Start and Early Head Start programs. Ed has received excellent reviews for his ability to contextualize the content to the challenges and pressures in our community.
As part of our Training West offerings, The Leadership Challenge Workshops are scheduled as open enrollment and contract courses. Open enrollment allows for anyone to register as many staff as they wish at the established member or non-member rate. Also, the workshop can be contracted by an agency or a cluster of agencies for a set fee. Each class accommodates 36-48 participants.
Questions?
Please contact us at headstartr9@region9hsa.org or call 916-259-0971.

The Leadership Challenge 2/4
2025-12-02 14:00 - 16:30 UTC | Virtual

NHSA Parent and Family Engagement Conference
2025-12-08 08:00 - 2025-12-11 17:00 (America/Phoenix) | Orlando, FL

The Leadership Challenge 3/4
2025-12-08 14:00 - 16:30 UTC | Virtual

The Leadership Challenge 4/4
2025-12-09 14:00 - 16:30 UTC | Virtual

Governance Training 1/2
2025-12-18 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
Why
Strong governance goes beyond compliance, it creates stability, ensures accountability, and drives decisions that sustain program viability and long-term success. Together, the Board and Policy Council play a critical role in shaping the future of Head Start services for children, families, and staff. A well-trained Governing Body is central to a governance system that fosters compliance, continuous improvement, and innovation. HSW is committed to supporting the knowledge, growth, and effectiveness of Governing Bodies and staff, recognizing that strong governance models directly contribute to high-quality experiences for children, families, and the workforce.
What
Head Start programs thrive when governance is strong, engaged, and aligned with the mission.
This two-part series is designed to strengthen leadership and accountability at every level—equipping Policy Council and Governing Board members, as well as community partners, with the knowledge and tools needed to lead with confidence.
A strong Governance System relies on clear processes, adherence to requirements, and positive, collaborative relationships between management and Governing Bodies. These elements are essential to maintaining compliance, driving continuous improvement, and fostering innovation.
Part 1: Policy Council Members (December 18, 2025)
Policy Council members are the voice of families and communities. This session highlights how parent and community representatives work with Governing Boards and program leadership to strengthen services, improve outcomes, and bring community needs forward. Participants will also explore how Policy Council participation connects to broader program priorities and services, showcasing and reinforcing a program’s commitment to its workforce.
Part 2: Governing Board Members (January 22, 2026)
Board members are entrusted with stewardship of the Head Start mission. This session goes beyond outlining roles and responsibilities—it emphasizes the impact of strong, sound, and effective governance on a program’s success, stability, and sustainability. Participants will gain tools to stay engaged, ensure accountability, and understand how their leadership directly influences the future of the program and the children and families it serves.
Where
Virtual & On-Demand via Zoom
When
Part 1 December 18, 2025 @ 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM PST
Part 2 January 22, 2026 @ 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM PST
Questions?
Please contact our Training and Events Manager Melissa Sahagun.

Managers Academy Cohort 4 1/6
2026-01-20 14:00 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
The Managers Academy combines collective, small-group, and independent learning to create a dynamic experience. Participants gain leadership essentials, strategies for building strong teams, and practical tools for program design, evaluation, and continuous improvement. They will apply concepts directly to their programs—developing monitoring and evaluation plans, practicing systems thinking, and cultivating meaningful community partnerships.
Most importantly, managers leave with a deeper understanding of their leadership style and the confidence to leverage it in advancing program initiatives, fostering sustainability, and driving long-term success.
Who
The Head Start West Manager’s Academy is designed for current managers and emerging leaders who are ready to strengthen their skills, expand their influence, and prepare for the next step in their leadership journey. By bringing together those already guiding teams and those preparing to step into management roles, the Academy creates a powerful platform for succession planning—ensuring that agencies have a strong pipeline of capable leaders to sustain excellence in Head Start programs.
This experience is especially valuable for individuals navigating the critical transitions into and out of middle management positions, where the ability to balance vision with implementation, and strategy with trust, is most essential. The Academy equips participants with tools, relationships, and perspectives that will not only enhance their own leadership but also elevate the performance and culture of their entire organization.
Where/When
The majority of the course work will take place virtually utilizing the Zoom platform and an interactive learning management resource from 2-4:30pm PST. Participants will meet in Sacramento, CA July 21-22, 2026 for our closing gathering.

1/20/26 – Virtual via Zoom | 2:00-4:30 PM (PST)
2/24/26 – Virtual via Zoom | 2:00-4:30 PM (PST)
3/17/26 – Virtual via Zoom | 2:00-4:30 PM (PST)
5/19/26 – Virtual via Zoom | 2:00-4:30 PM (PST)
6/23/26 – Virtual via Zoom | 2:00-4:30 PM (PST)
7/21/26-7/22/26- In Person in Sacramento, CA

Fees
Member: $1,750.00/person
Non-Member: $1,950.00/person

Directors Exchange Network 1/21
2026-01-21 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Phoenix) | Virtual
January 21st 1:00pm – Zoom Link Here
The Directors Exchange meetings are designed to create a space for executive directors, directors, and deputy directors to regularly connect, learn new skills, and strategize over effective practices to advance their programs. Directors Exchange meetings will consist of three meetings per year.
The goal of the Directors Exchange meetings is to nurture relationships among new and experienced directors, create a safe and collaborative environment for professional growth, and gain strategies to build high-impact organizations. In addition, these meetings will allow participants the opportunity to tour other agencies, meet with selected trainers and nurture professional friendship in an atmosphere of confidentiality and trust.
Facilitated by Cynthia Yao, these sessions take place every other month.

Governance Training 2/2
2026-01-22 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Phoenix) | Virtual
Why
Strong governance goes beyond compliance, it creates stability, ensures accountability, and drives decisions that sustain program viability and long-term success. Together, the Board and Policy Council play a critical role in shaping the future of Head Start services for children, families, and staff. A well-trained Governing Body is central to a governance system that fosters compliance, continuous improvement, and innovation. HSW is committed to supporting the knowledge, growth, and effectiveness of Governing Bodies and staff, recognizing that strong governance models directly contribute to high-quality experiences for children, families, and the workforce.
What
Head Start programs thrive when governance is strong, engaged, and aligned with the mission.
This two-part series is designed to strengthen leadership and accountability at every level—equipping Policy Council and Governing Board members, as well as community partners, with the knowledge and tools needed to lead with confidence.
A strong Governance System relies on clear processes, adherence to requirements, and positive, collaborative relationships between management and Governing Bodies. These elements are essential to maintaining compliance, driving continuous improvement, and fostering innovation.
Part 1: Policy Council Members (December 18, 2025)
Policy Council members are the voice of families and communities. This session highlights how parent and community representatives work with Governing Boards and program leadership to strengthen services, improve outcomes, and bring community needs forward. Participants will also explore how Policy Council participation connects to broader program priorities and services, showcasing and reinforcing a program’s commitment to its workforce.
Part 2: Governing Board Members (January 22, 2026)
Board members are entrusted with stewardship of the Head Start mission. This session goes beyond outlining roles and responsibilities—it emphasizes the impact of strong, sound, and effective governance on a program’s success, stability, and sustainability. Participants will gain tools to stay engaged, ensure accountability, and understand how their leadership directly influences the future of the program and the children and families it serves.
Where
Virtual & On-Demand via Zoom
When
Part 1 December 18, 2025 @ 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM PST
Part 2 January 22, 2026 @ 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM PST
Questions?
Please contact our Training and Events Manager Melissa Sahagun.gov

NHSA Winter Leadership Institute
2026-01-26 08:00 - 2026-01-29 17:00 (America/Phoenix) | Washington, DC

Managers Academy Cohort 4 2/6
2026-02-24 14:00 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual

Managers Academy Cohort 4 3/6
2026-03-17 14:00 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual

Directors Exchange Network 3/18
2026-03-18 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
March 18th 1:00pm – Zoom Link Here
The Directors Exchange meetings are designed to create a space for executive directors, directors, and deputy directors to regularly connect, learn new skills, and strategize over effective practices to advance their programs. Directors Exchange meetings will consist of three meetings per year.
The goal of the Directors Exchange meetings is to nurture relationships among new and experienced directors, create a safe and collaborative environment for professional growth, and gain strategies to build high-impact organizations. In addition, these meetings will allow participants the opportunity to tour other agencies, meet with selected trainers and nurture professional friendship in an atmosphere of confidentiality and trust.
Facilitated by Cynthia Yao, these sessions take place every other month.

2026 INNOVATE STEM Institute
2026-03-23 - 2026-03-26 | Virtual

Managers Academy Cohort 4 4/6
2026-05-19 14:00 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual

Directors Exchange Network 5/20
2026-05-20 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
May 20th 1:00pm –Zoom Link Here
The Directors Exchange meetings are designed to create a space for executive directors, directors, and deputy directors to regularly connect, learn new skills, and strategize over effective practices to advance their programs. Directors Exchange meetings will consist of three meetings per year.
The goal of the Directors Exchange meetings is to nurture relationships among new and experienced directors, create a safe and collaborative environment for professional growth, and gain strategies to build high-impact organizations. In addition, these meetings will allow participants the opportunity to tour other agencies, meet with selected trainers and nurture professional friendship in an atmosphere of confidentiality and trust.
Facilitated by Cynthia Yao, these sessions take place every other month.

2026 First 1,000 Days! Early Head Start Conference
2026-06-08 - 2026-06-11 | Hyatt Regency Irvine, 17900 Jamboree Rd, Irvine, CA, 92614, United States

Managers Academy Cohort 4 5/6
2026-06-23 14:00 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual

Directors Exchange Network 7/15
2026-07-15 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
July 15th 1:00pm – Zoom Link Here
The Directors Exchange meetings are designed to create a space for executive directors, directors, and deputy directors to regularly connect, learn new skills, and strategize over effective practices to advance their programs. Directors Exchange meetings will consist of three meetings per year.
The goal of the Directors Exchange meetings is to nurture relationships among new and experienced directors, create a safe and collaborative environment for professional growth, and gain strategies to build high-impact organizations. In addition, these meetings will allow participants the opportunity to tour other agencies, meet with selected trainers and nurture professional friendship in an atmosphere of confidentiality and trust.
Facilitated by Cynthia Yao, these sessions take place every other month.

Managers Academy Cohort 4 6/6
2026-07-21 - 2026-07-22 | Sacramento, CA

Directors Exchange Network 9/16
2026-09-16 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
September 16th 1:00pm – Zoom Link Here
The Directors Exchange meetings are designed to create a space for executive directors, directors, and deputy directors to regularly connect, learn new skills, and strategize over effective practices to advance their programs. Directors Exchange meetings will consist of three meetings per year.
The goal of the Directors Exchange meetings is to nurture relationships among new and experienced directors, create a safe and collaborative environment for professional growth, and gain strategies to build high-impact organizations. In addition, these meetings will allow participants the opportunity to tour other agencies, meet with selected trainers and nurture professional friendship in an atmosphere of confidentiality and trust.
Facilitated by Cynthia Yao, these sessions take place every other month.

2026 ELEVATE Conference
2026-10-12 - 2026-10-16 | Hilton Waikoloa Village, 69-425 Waikōloa Beach Dr, Waikoloa Village, HI, 96738, United States

Directors Exchange Network 11/18
2026-11-18 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
November 18th 1:00pm – Zoom Link Here
The Directors Exchange meetings are designed to create a space for executive directors, directors, and deputy directors to regularly connect, learn new skills, and strategize over effective practices to advance their programs. Directors Exchange meetings will consist of three meetings per year.
The goal of the Directors Exchange meetings is to nurture relationships among new and experienced directors, create a safe and collaborative environment for professional growth, and gain strategies to build high-impact organizations. In addition, these meetings will allow participants the opportunity to tour other agencies, meet with selected trainers and nurture professional friendship in an atmosphere of confidentiality and trust.
Facilitated by Cynthia Yao, these sessions take place every other month.

NHSA Parent and Family Engagement Conference
2026-12-14 08:00 - 2026-12-18 17:00 (America/Phoenix) | Nashville, TN
