Uplifting Early Educators
Early educators carry immense responsibility, shaping the minds, hearts and futures of the children in their care.
Yet all too often, the weight of that work goes unrecognized, and the well-being of the educators themselves is overlooked. This September, Milwaukee Succeeds – together with Daniel Educational Services – took a bold step toward changing that, creating a new kind of conference that centered early educators and prioritized their emotional well-being.
Cultivating Strength in Early Childhood Education (ECE) was no ordinary professional development day. 61 educators came together in a fully bilingual space where English and Spanish speakers learned side by side, choosing sessions based on the topics that spoke to them rather than the language they were spoken in. Live interpretation in each room made every conversation, story and idea accessible to all, fostering a truly inclusive environment.
The data speaks for itself. A post-conference survey revealed that 100% of respondents agreed that the training increased their knowledge and that they felt confident in applying what they’d learned. In addition, 96% said the trainings were extremely relevant to their role.
“It was practical, and it was presented by people that did not just have theoretical knowledge, but they had life application, which makes all the difference,” said one participant.
The conference also put emerging ECE trainers in the spotlight, giving them a platform to share real-world insights drawn from their own experiences. For many, this was their first opportunity to lead a full session, and several have already been invited to bring their expertise to statewide and national conferences.
Just as the conference elevated professional voices, it also nurtured personal well-being. Calming reflection spaces, movement-based activities and one-on-one consultations with mental health professionals reminded educators that self-care isn’t a luxury – it’s essential to their work. Participants left with practical tools, new connections and renewed energy to bring into their classrooms.
