About the Institute
The Early Childhood Leadership Institute is dedicated to increasing and enhancing
the knowledge base, skills and competencies of the early childhood administrator
though providing opportunities for advanced training, professional growth, networking and
support.
The Early Childhood Leadership Institute recognizes the specialized knowledge
and skills required to be an effective manager of an early care and education program.
We understand that to improve the quality of programs that serve young children and
their families, the director's administrative skills must be strong and continually
evolving. To create early childhood programs with work environments that develop,
support and retain skilled teachers, program directors capable of strong leadership
are essential.
Research supports The Early Childhood Leadership Institute's mission:
- Directors' level of formal education is a strong predictor of overall program quality.
Bloom, 1990, 1996; Cost, Quality, and Child Outcomes Study Team, 1995;
Kagan & Bowman, 1997; Lower & Cassidy, 2007; Phillips, et al., 2001;
Vandell & Wolfe, 2000; Vu, Jeon, & Howes, 2008; Washington, 2008; Whitebook,
et al., 2008, 2001.
- There is a positive relationship between the quality of administrative
practices and the quality of the children's learning environment in center-
based programs.
Lower & Cassidy, 2007; MCECL, 2010; National Center for Children and Families, 2008.
- Directors with higher levels of education and specialized training in program
administration are more likely to support the professional development of their
teaching staff, secure and maintain program funding, and achieve center accreditation.
Fowler, Bloom, Talan, T., Beneke, S., & Kelton, 2008; MCECL, 2008; Bredekamp & Willer, 1996.
- The credential level of the director is a predictor of classroom quality.
Vu, Jeon & Howes, 2008.
