Early Learning Cohort
Building the foundation for future success.

Embark on a transformative expedition with AASA's Early Learning Cohort, where visionary district leaders unite to champion the foundation of educational excellence! This cohort will help you experience the profound impact of early childhood education — not merely as an educational stage, but as the cornerstone of opportunity and limitless potential for every child in your community.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn Transformative Practices: Uncover research-backed approaches that elevate early learning from good to exceptional, identifying the unique constellation of strategies that will ignite possibility in your distinct community landscape.
- Cultivate a Vibrant Leadership Community: Forge meaningful connections with fellow educational leaders who share your passion for early childhood excellence, creating a powerful network of mutual inspiration, support, and collaborative innovation.
- Co-Create Alongside Leading Visionaries: Engage directly with pioneering early learning advocates and thought leaders to craft sustainable initiatives that transcend temporary interventions and become embedded in your district's educational DNA.
- Amplify Your Impact Through Collective Wisdom: Join a growing movement of educational champions who recognize that early learning excellence isn't just a program—it's a transformative philosophy that reshapes educational trajectories and community futures!
2026-2027 Meeting Schedule
Virtual Meetings
All virtual meetings will take place from 1:00pm - 2:30pm ET on the following days:
- September 9, 2026
- November 18, 2026
- January 13, 2027
- March 10, 2027
In-Person Meetings
October 7 - 9, 2026: Cohort Site Visit | Buffett Early Childhood Institute and DC West in Omaha (N.E.) | This site visit is exclusively for registered cohort members and their team!
Superintendents, district staff, and others involved in early learning initiatives who are looking to advance their programs. Only one representative from each district/organization needs to register, and additional team members from the same district/organization are welcome to participate.
Cohort Leads and Advisory Committee
2026-27 Speakers
When we talk about breaking down barriers…a strong early learning start gives everyone even footing to achieve their full potential.Kristi Dominguez
The research is very clear that early learning builds a foundation for future success for students. It’s important as a nation that we invest in early learning.Peter Finch![]()
Details
September 9, 2026 to April 19, 2027
$2,250
Member Price
$2,750
Non-Member Price
Not a member? Join today.
Register TodayContacts
-
Stephanie St. John
Program Manager, Leadership Network
AASA, The School Superintendents Association
703-875-0762
-
John Malloy
Senior Vice President, Leadership Network
AASA, The School Superintendents Association
Joyful Learning in Early Childhood Education: Denver Public Schools' Approach
Read about the Cohort's fall 2024 site visit to Denver Public Schools where they explored the power of play, collaboration and community.
Read Post
AASA Early Learning Spring 2024 Meeting at Gwinnett County Public Schools (Ga.)
AASA Early Learning Spring 2023 Meeting at the Caldwell School District (Idaho)

2022 Early Learning Toolkit

