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Background on the Early Learning Symposium
The Early Learning Symposium was born out of a collaborative effort that included OUSD, Oakland Literacy Coalition, Oakland Starting Smart and Strong, BANANAS, City of Oakland Head Start/Early Head Start, Alameda County Office of Education, First 5 Alameda County, YMCA of the East Bay, St. Vincent's Day Home, and the New Teacher Center. The inaugural event in 2019 resulted in 350 participants attending. The diversity of participants included teachers, instructional assistants and directors from Head Start and state funded programs, family child care providers, and informal care providers. More detail on the 2019 event here.  Photo by Maryam Salassi At the Oakland Early Learning Symposium workshop held on February 27, direct service staff from community based organizations provided up to date information on how child care providers and preschool teachers can refer families to everything from mental health consultations to free diapers, right in their own neighborhood. One participant commented, “the symposium was great, and a perfect opportunity to learn about resources that are available to families who need support during these challenging times.” Watch the video recording of the workshop.
 2020 Oakland Early Learning Symposium Speakers and Staff photo Just as our young students are learning and growing online, we’re doing the same -- through the Oakland Early Learning Symposium. Part II of the symposium, on November 14, focused on Online Learning and Family Support. Over 170 participants heard practical tips and inspiring stories of connecting with children and families during this challenging time. And, teachers and caregivers shared their personal pride in learning so many new tech skills to make their online teaching more effective.
 On August 29th, more than 200 early childhood educators took part in our first Early Learning Symposium virtual workshop, which focused on health and safety in reopening childcare during COVID-19. The participants included Head Start and OUSD teachers, private center staff, and family child care providers. They heard tips from providers who are currently open, as well as updates from Alameda County Public Health and Alameda County Emergency Child Care Response Team. They also had the opportunity to talk together about the concerns they share. In appreciation of their work, they will receive “reopening boxes” which include PPE, cleaning supplies, puppets, and a scented candle for self-care.
96% of participants said they were satisfied or very satisfied with the workshop. One participant said, “I liked the diversity of presenters and speakers. Very inspiring. Thank you!” |
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