At Leading for Children we are learning about the significant impact the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is having on our nation’s early learning community. We focus on all those who influence the lives of young children, among them parents, teachers, coaches, agency leaders, bus drivers, receptionists, and cafeteria workers. As always, health and safety must be our top priorities. We recognize that the impact of the crisis has ripples beyond the immediate public health threat. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting economic crisis will be disproportionately felt by children in poverty and children of color.

In this moment of intense challenge, Leading for Children is unwavering in our mission to provide the best early learning experiences for young children – regardless of their race or socioeconomic status – while creating environments where educators thrive. As we quickly adapt to meet the challenges of COVID-19, we’re responding to our partners’ needs by:

1. Expanding our online learning programs and remote peer networks to give our partners the support they need to meet daily challenges with optimism.
2. Retooling our site-based programs to leverage digital tools, including video conferencing and webinars, as well as traditional methods such as phone calls and texts, so that we can continue to provide meaningful, accomplish-able professional development that is widely accessible by our audiences.
3. Expanding outreach to our community to offer support to those who need it most.
4. Compiling resources to help families navigate working, teaching and learning at home.

As Optimistic Leaders we envision the best outcomes for children — our next generation of critical thinkers and leaders.  As such, we invite you to think with us about how to use what we are learning. Instead of thinking about going back to “normal”, let’s activate curiosity to envision a future that is better for all.

Thank you as always for the work you do each day to support children, families, and communities across our network.

To make sure we can quickly and effectively meet the needs of our community in this unprecedented moment, please consider a gift to the  Optimistic Leadership COVID-19 fund.