The Institute

Why types of funds can be used to attend the Institute?
UPK planning funds or other district identified resources can be used for the Institute registration and travel fees.

Who should attend?
District leaders who are key decision-makers with a role in planning and implementing various components of UPK, with at least one individual who is directly responsible for early education and at least one individual in cabinet or higher (e.g., superintendent, deputy superintendent, assistant superintendent, or board member). Team members may include representatives from departments/divisions such as early learning, expanded learning, special education, curriculum & instruction, assessment, professional development, human resources, fiscal/budget, and operations, as well as community partnerships (e.g., Head Start and community child care providers, service providers, Local Planning Council, and others).

How should we identify the right people to attend?
If you are not sure, we can help you identify key individuals from your district.

Is there a minimum number of individuals to a team?
Yes. There is a minimum of two people to be considered a team.

Is space limited?
Yes. Limited team spaces are available.

Why is DIAL EE organizing the Institute?
At this moment, school districts have great opportunities to implement a number of initiatives that, if aligned and systemized, can have far-reaching impacts on student and community success. Districts looking to expand TK, strengthen preschool, re-envision inclusion and multilingual supports, create behavioral health models, increase access to expanded learning programs, and more need time, resources, and support to pull it all together in ways that are thoughtful, innovative, and efficient. DIAL EE and its partners are organizing the Institute to support California school districts to develop a comprehensive early education strategy that is tailored to their context yet informed by a shared vision and goals.