Delaware State University’s Early Childhood Innovation Center (the ECIC) participated in a national conversation on strengthening the early childhood workforce at SXSW EDU 2026, held March 9–12 in Austin, Texas.

The session, “Insisting on Success: Systems That Support and Sustain the Early Childhood Workforce,” explored how intentional workforce systems can move educators beyond access and toward persistence, completion and long-term career advancement.

Moderated by Jackie Mader, senior reporter at The Hechinger Report, the panel featured Dr. Kimberly Krzanowski, executive director of the ECIC; Phyllis Roland, Child Development Associate® Coach at the ECIC; and Jazzie Tribbett, an Early Childhood Educator and ECIC CDA® scholar.

The discussion highlighted how the ECIC’s workforce model is reshaping early childhood workforce development through coordinated systems of support, including credential pathways, coaching, financial assistance and career navigation.

“The panel offered an excellent opportunity to share how the ECIC is changing the landscape in supporting early childhood educators achieving career advancement,” said Dr. Krzanowski. “Being unapologetic in our approach to design and deliver holistic, intentional, relationship-based coaching has proven to be at the center of our success model.”

Throughout the session, speakers emphasized that access alone is not enough to ensure success.

“What makes the ECIC special is that our work is grounded in relationships,” Roland said. “We listen, we understand, and we build systems that respond to real needs. Access to resources is important, but it is the coordination of those resources within a comprehensive system of support that leads to successful outcomes.”

Roland’s remarks underscored a broader shift in workforce development, highlighting the importance of sustained, people-centered support systems that guide educators throughout their careers.

That impact was further reflected in the experience of ECIC scholar Jazzie Tribbett.

“For anyone considering going back to school, go for it. Do not be afraid,” Tribbett said. “Build a community that supports you and speak up when you need help. The ECIC reminds you that you are never alone. This experience gave me the confidence to continue my journey, and I will be applying for my Associate’s degree”

Together, these perspectives reflect the strength of the ECIC model. It is not only about access. It is about persistence, support, and transformation.

The session concluded with a clear call to action for states and institutions across the country.

Success in the early childhood workforce does not happen by chance. It happens when systems are intentionally designed to support educators every step of the way.

Through this national platform, the ECIC shared Delaware’s emerging model and reinforced the importance of building systems that empower educators, strengthen classrooms, and improve outcomes for children and families.

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A Vision for Young Learners

In 2022, Jakine Trader opened the doors to Pals and Gals Childhood Learning Center in Bear, Delaware, with a clear and purposeful mission: to provide a safe, nurturing, and academically enriching environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive.

Serving children from six weeks to six years old, Pals and Gals is grounded in the belief that early learning lays the foundation for lifelong success. In addition to full-time early care services, the center provides tutoring support for older children who require additional academic reinforcement. The goal is comprehensive kindergarten readiness, ensuring children are prepared academically, socially, and emotionally.

A Credential That Strengthens Leadership

Through the CDA® Voucher-Only Scholarship, Jakine earned her Child Development Associate® (CDA®) Family Child Care credential (Bilingual). This scholarship pathway is designed for early childhood professionals who are nearing completion of their credential and prepared to finalize the process independently.

By covering the $525 CDA® assessment fee and providing a $1,000 completion stipend, the ECIC removes financial barriers and supports educators in reaching this nationally recognized milestone.

For Jakine, this accomplishment represents growth on multiple levels. Earning her CDA® strengthens her leadership, enhances instructional quality, and reinforces her commitment to delivering high standards of care and education. As a bilingual credentialed professional, she is positioned to better serve diverse families and ensure inclusive, culturally responsive learning environments.

A Philosophy Rooted in Purpose

Reflecting on her journey, Jakine shares:

“Planting seeds today so our children can grow into tomorrow’s leaders.”

Her words reflect both her philosophy and her impact. The seeds planted inside Pals and Gals Childhood Learning Center extend beyond academics. They cultivate confidence, resilience, and opportunity for every child served.

Growing Delaware’s Early Childhood Workforce

Jakine’s achievement underscores the importance of professional advancement in early childhood education. When educators grow, programs strengthen. When programs strengthen, children and communities thrive.

The ECIC proudly celebrates Jakine Trader on earning her CDA® and continuing her commitment to excellence in family child care.

Your Next Step

Jakine’s journey is also a reminder that growth in early childhood education is possible when educators have access to the right support.

Family child care providers across Delaware play a critical role in shaping the earliest learning experiences for young children. Through scholarships, credential pathways, and professional guidance, the ECIC is committed to supporting educators who are ready to strengthen their practice and advance their careers.

Whether you are completing your CDA®, exploring an Associate or Bachelor’s degree, or looking for resources to support your family child care program, the ECIC offers opportunities designed to help Delaware’s early childhood workforce grow and succeed.

If you are a family child care provider in Delaware, your next step could start here.

Explore ECIC scholarships and resources at ecic.desu.edu.

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At Love Bug Lane Learning Academy, LLC, the classroom does not end at the doorway. It extends into open air, garden beds, and thoughtfully prepared natural spaces where discovery is intentional and growth is nurtured daily.

As a Large Family Outdoor Program and ambassador site for “Let’s Go Outside” and “Let’s Grow Outside,” Tressa Clemow has built more than a child care setting. She has built a professional Family Child Care environment rooted in exploration, structure, and purpose.

Here, children learn through movement, observation, dialogue, and meaningful connection to the world around them. Nature is not an enhancement to the curriculum. It is foundational to how learning unfolds.

Family Child Care, in Tressa’s hands, is both intimate and innovative.

A Career That Strengthens the Field

For over 42 years, Tressa has served children ages 12 and under, including neurodivergent learners. Her impact is measured not only in years, but in generations of families who have trusted her leadership and expertise.

Family Child Care providers often operate as educators, administrators, mentors, and advocates simultaneously. Tressa has embodied all of these roles with consistency and care.

Her longevity in the field reflects resilience. Her approach reflects professionalism. Her environment reflects intentional design.

Family Child Care is essential to Delaware’s early childhood landscape, and experienced providers like Tressa strengthen that foundation every day.

Growth Within the Profession

Even seasoned educators continue to evolve. Several years ago, Tressa began the journey toward earning her Child Development Associate® credential. Like many Family Child Care providers, she balanced business ownership, caregiving responsibilities, and family life.

She chose to pause her CDA® journey to prioritize her family. It was not abandonment of the goal. It was stewardship of her season.

When she returned through the ECIC Family Child Care CDA Cohort, she did so with renewed clarity and commitment to her professional growth.

Supported to Succeed

Completing her CDA through the ECIC DE RISE Scholarship represented more than fulfilling requirements. It affirmed her experience while strengthening her credentials within the Family Child Care profession.

As Tressa shared,

“Finally completing the CDA® is very empowering. I did this for me and had amazing support along the way.”

Guided by Cohort Coach Stephanie Jackson, Tressa benefited from structured coaching, accountability, and the encouragement of fellow Family Child Care providers walking the same path.

The cohort model reflects what professional advancement should look like in Family Child Care: accessible, community-centered, and responsive to the realities providers navigate daily.

This is wraparound support in action.

A Philosophy Rooted in Encouragement

At the heart of Tressa’s work is a belief that continues to guide her practice:

“Encouraging children to grow and be amazing every step of the way.”

This philosophy shapes her outdoor classrooms, her instructional choices, and her daily interactions. It affirms that Family Child Care is not simply supervision. It is intentional early education delivered within a relationship-based environment.

Through her leadership, Love Bug Lane remains a space where children build independence, confidence, and curiosity under the guidance of a professional who understands both development and heart.

Strengthening Family Child Care in Delaware

Tressa’s story reflects the strength and possibility within the Family Child Care community. Professional growth does not have an expiration date. Experience and credentialing work together to elevate the field.

Through the ECIC DE RISE Scholarship, Delaware Family Child Care providers can access CDA® pathways, cohort-based learning, individualized coaching, and wraparound support designed specifically for providers operating their own programs.

If you paused, you can return.
If you started, you can complete.
If you are ready to strengthen your practice, ECIC is here to walk alongside you.

Because insisting on success means investing in Family Child Care professionals who anchor early learning across our communities every single day. 💙

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A Milestone Earned

Some accomplishments arrive quietly, but their impact is lasting. At the end of Fall 2025, ECIC Scholar Myrian DiDonato reached a defining moment in her academic and professional journey.

Through the ECIC DE RISE Scholarship, Myrian completed her Associate of Science in Early Childhood Development at the University of the Potomac, graduating magna cum laude. This distinction reflects not only academic excellence, but the persistence, heart, and commitment she brings to her work with young children and families.

For Myrian, this degree was never just about credentials. It represents growth, purpose, and the belief that she could keep moving forward, even when the path was challenging.

“This diploma represents more than an academic achievement for me; it reflects resilience, hard work, and a passion for supporting children and their families.”

“The support of this scholarship has allowed me to continue my educational journey while making a meaningful impact in early childhood education. I am truly grateful for this wonderful opportunity.”

Moving Forward

Myrian’s story reaffirms what is possible when early childhood educators are supported. Through the ECIC DE RISE Scholarship, she was able to remain present in her classroom while advancing her education, strengthening both her professional practice and the experiences of the children she serves.

Myrian is now advancing into her Bachelor’s degree at the University of the Potomac, building on her Associate foundation and deepening her expertise in early childhood education. Her progression from Associate to Bachelor’s embodies the very purpose of the ECIC DE RISE Scholarship: empowering educators to grow, lead, and elevate Delaware’s early learning workforce.

Your Next Step

When educators grow, children and communities thrive. Myrian’s journey is a powerful example of that truth.

We celebrate her determination, her heart for children, and her continued commitment to the early childhood field.

If you are an early childhood educator in Delaware, your journey could look like Myrian’s. Through the ECIC DE RISE Scholarship, you can access pathways from CDA to Associate and Bachelor’s degrees, along with guidance and wraparound support every step of the way.

Your next chapter starts here.

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When the Goal Is Clear but the Path Is Not

For many early childhood educators, the desire to advance professionally is strong. What often stands in the way are the realities of cost, access, and time. Tuition can feel overwhelming. Reliable technology is not always available. Balancing school alongside work and life responsibilities can make returning to college feel unrealistic.

That was the space Sydney Buss found herself in.

Sydney knew that earning a degree in early childhood education would open doors for her future and deepen the impact she could have on the children she serves. But like many educators in the field, she faced real barriers that made pursuing higher education difficult to imagine without meaningful support.

The Shift: When Support Becomes Possible

That turning point came when Sydney connected with the Early Childhood Innovation Center (ECIC).

Through the Early Childhood Innovation Center’s DE RISE Scholarship, long-standing obstacles began to fall away. Tuition assistance addressed the financial strain that had made enrollment feel out of reach. Access to a laptop removed a critical resource barrier. Just as importantly, ongoing guidance from the Early Childhood Innovation Center’s professional staff ensured Sydney had support at every stage of the process.

Reflecting on that moment, Sydney shares:

“The opportunity to earn my degree in early childhood education through the ECIC scholarship came at a time when I did not think I could afford college or manage school alongside life. Thanks to the Early Childhood Innovation Center, I was able not only to return to school, but also to receive a laptop I truly needed and access to supportive professionals who helped me with questions and concerns throughout the entire process.”

This was not just financial assistance. It was wraparound support designed by the Early Childhood Innovation Center to meet educators where they are and help them move forward with confidence.

What Happens When Barriers Are Removed

With stability and support in place through the Early Childhood Innovation Center, Sydney returned to college focused and prepared. She enrolled in the Associate of Arts in Teaching in Early Care and Education program at Delaware Technical Community College, committing fully to her academic journey.

The outcome spoke for itself.

At the end of the Fall 2025 semester, Sydney completed her degree and graduated magna cum laude. Her achievement reflected not only academic excellence, but the power of access, encouragement, and sustained support made possible through the Early Childhood Innovation Center.

When early childhood educators are given the right tools, they do more than persist. They excel.

Looking Ahead: A Future Focused on Impact

Graduation marked an important milestone, but it was not the end of Sydney’s journey.

Building on her associate degree, she plans to continue her education and pursue a career as a childhood behavioral specialist, further strengthening Delaware’s early childhood workforce with specialized knowledge and compassion.

As Sydney explains:

“This scholarship has opened a world of possibilities for my professional development. I am incredibly thankful and plan to continue my journey toward becoming a childhood behavioral specialist. I will always be grateful to the Early Childhood Innovation Center for helping me achieve my associate degree.”

Her path forward reflects a deeper truth about workforce development. When early childhood educators are supported, prepared, and empowered, the impact extends beyond one individual to children, families, programs, and communities.

The Early Childhood Innovation Center Difference

Sydney’s story reflects the heart of the Early Childhood Innovation Center’s mission. By removing financial, academic, and resource barriers, the Early Childhood Innovation Center helps educators move from uncertainty to achievement. Through intentional wraparound support, the Early Childhood Innovation Center creates conditions where success is not just possible, but sustainable.

Sydney Buss’ journey from “I can’t afford college” to graduating magna cum laude is a reminder of what happens when opportunity meets determination

If you are an early childhood educator in Delaware considering your next step but unsure where to begin, the Early Childhood Innovation Center is here to help you explore what is possible and support you throughout the process. Your experience, dedication, and future matter.

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The ECIC continues to serve as the backbone of innovation in early childhood education and workforce empowerment across Delaware, bringing coaches together through the 2026 First Quarter ECIC Coaches Institute for a working session focused on scholar success. As the ECIC enters a new quarter, the institute functioned as a strategic initiative designed to reinforce proven coaching practices that sustain scholar progress and successful completion across year-round Child Development Associate (CDA®) DE RISE Scholarship pathways.

Coaches aligned on standardized approaches that keep scholars consistently engaged, supported, and on track across all the ECIC CDA® DE RISE Scholarship pathways. The session reinforced coordinated coaching structures, clear accountability measures, and cross-pathway collaboration that directly support scholar retention and successful scholarship outcomes. These practices ensure scholars receive timely guidance and uninterrupted support from enrollment through credential or Quorum® completion.

The institute also incorporated updates from the Council for Professional Recognition and planning for 2026 transitions, ensuring coaches are equipped with current credentialing and pathway requirements. This alignment allows scholars to receive accurate, up-to-date advising as they navigate evolving education and workforce expectations.

Through structured group training aligned with Birth to Five priorities, coaches strengthened statewide consistency in how scholar coaching is delivered. The session reinforced a shared operating framework that prioritizes clarity, efficiency, and continuous improvement, while remaining responsive to individual scholar needs.

As the ECIC moves into the first quarter of 2026, this coordinated coaching model continues to translate into measurable scholar engagement, persistence, and advancement. The ECIC remains committed to delivering clear pathways, consistent coaching, and outcomes-driven support that move Delaware’s early childhood workforce forward.

For early childhood educators across Delaware, this work means access to a proven support system designed to help you start strong, stay engaged, and reach your next professional milestone. If you are ready to advance your credentials, strengthen your career, and move forward with confidence, now is the time to connect with the ECIC and tap into the coaching, scholarship, and guidance built to support your success.

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Emery’s Journey and Why Men Matter in Early Childhood Education

Long before Emery ever stepped into a professional classroom, he was the person children naturally followed. Growing up in a large and close knit family in Brooklyn, Emery was a constant, steady presence. He was the one who helped with homework, calmed big emotions, and found ways to turn learning into something fun. For him, early childhood education was never a career pivot. It was a natural extension of who he had always been.

That instinct led him to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the field. He worked steadily toward that goal and completed 103 credits, building a strong academic foundation. Then the pandemic happened. Like many students across the country, Emery’s education was disrupted. His coursework paused, and the path he had carefully planned suddenly felt uncertain.

Finding His Place in Delaware

After the pandemic, a visit to a friend in Delaware opened a new chapter. Emery connected immediately with the community and the opportunities within the local early childhood field. Even before he officially moved, programs were offering him jobs. It was a clear sign that his passion and his presence were needed.

He began working in a YMCA after school program and later joined New Castle Early Head Start. There, administrators recognized his commitment and encouraged his growth as an educator. The work reaffirmed what he already knew. This was the field where he belonged.

The Credit Barrier and the Choice to Persist

When Emery decided it was time to return to school and finish his degree, he faced an unexpected and frustrating obstacle. Many colleges would not accept the 103 credits he had already earned. It felt like he was being asked to erase years of hard work and start over from the beginning.

It was a discouraging moment, but walking away was never an option. His commitment to the children he served was stronger than the bureaucracy standing in his way.

The ECIC Stepped In

That is where the Early Childhood Innovation Center came in.

Instead of giving up, Emery enrolled in the ECIC CDA® Comprehensive Program. Through the ECIC, he found structure, guidance, and a pathway that respected both his experience and his future. At a moment when quitting might have felt easier, the ECIC provided clarity and direction.

His coach, Ms. Simons, became a steady source of encouragement. Through consistent check ins and a firm belief in his potential, she helped Emery stay focused and moving forward. Combined with the support of his administrators at New Castle Head Start, the ECIC helped Emery regain momentum with confidence and purpose.

Through the ECIC, Emery also discovered CDA® credit for prior learning. This pathway allowed him to honor his past academic work and continue toward completing his degree without losing the progress he worked so hard to achieve.

Why Men Belong in Early Learning

For Emery, being a man in this field is about representation and responsibility. He believes both boys and girls benefit from seeing men as caregivers, educators, and leaders during their most formative years.

Children need to see men who are patient, consistent, and invested in their growth. They need to see men who listen and show up every day. This presence helps children understand that care and guidance are not limited by gender.

Emery’s journey reflects what becomes possible when men are supported to stay in early childhood education. Through the ECIC, his pathway did not end. It expanded.

Early learning spaces benefit when men bring their presence, perspective, and commitment into the classroom. For those who have ever felt called to mentor, teach, or guide young children, there is room to grow here and the ECIC is ready to help you take that next step.

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The Early Childhood Innovation Center (ECIC) at Delaware State University presented its statewide Advisement Model and Plan at the 2025 NAEYC Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida, highlighting Delaware’s leadership in early childhood workforce development.

Dr. Elizabeth Kelleher, ECIC Initiatives Officer, and Melinda Sanchez, ECIC CDA Coordinator, led the session and guided participants through the framework that has shaped ECIC’s approach to scholar support. They explained how the model blends academic advisement, coaching, and career development into a single, coherent system designed for real educators navigating real challenges.

The presentation emphasized the ECIC’s blended advisement model, shaped by the foundational principles of the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) and the National Career Development Association (NCDA). More importantly, it highlighted the outcomes emerging across Delaware. Two years of statewide implementation have shown how intentional, relationship driven supports can advance credentials, increase degree attainment, and strengthen confidence among early childhood professionals. The outcomes point to educators whose careers are advancing through intentional advisement and development supports that make long-term progression possible.

The Advisement and Achievement Model is more than a framework. It is a commitment. A commitment to educators who often carry the weight of their classrooms, their communities, and the children they serve. A commitment to creating systems that uplift rather than overwhelm. A commitment to ensuring that every scholar has the support, guidance, and opportunity needed to rise.

By presenting this model at the NAEYC, the ECIC reaffirmed Delaware’s leadership in designing intentional, evidence-informed systems that strengthen the early childhood workforce, support educators at every stage of their professional journey, and demonstrate the ECIC’s unwavering commitment to insisting on success.

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At the Early Childhood Innovation Center (ECIC), we know that investing in educators transforms the lives of children. That truth comes alive in the story of Marie Saintile’s, a De Rise Scholar and dedicated family child care provider.

With the support of her Family Child Care Coach, Roxane Tiley, Marie strengthened her program by refreshing her learning environment, introducing new materials to spark curiosity, and organizing her records with renewed clarity. The result is now a classroom that feels brighter, more engaging, and fully aligned with her commitment to quality early learning.

Success like this is built in community. Jamila Roach, a fellow DE RISE cohort scholar, volunteered her time to help Marie begin the process. Together, they demonstrated the true spirit of the Family Child Care Child Development Associate(CDA®) Pathway is more than a credential. It is a community, connection, and shared growth.

For Roxane, the experience underscored the purpose of coaching:

“Marie reminded me of my ‘why.’ The late nights are worth it when I see children walk into a brighter, stronger learning space.” said Coach Roxane

Marie’s story reflects what happens when providers embrace the ECIC Family Child Care CDA® Pathway, educators gain confidence, classrooms are enriched, and children thrive.

📢 Are you a family child care provider?

Take the next step in your professional journey with the Family Child Care CDA® Pathway. Through coaching, cohort support, and the DE RISE Scholarship, you’ll receive the tools and encouragement to elevate your program at no cost to you.

At the ECIC, we insist on success , for providers, for children, and for the future of early childhood education in Delaware.

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At the Early Childhood Innovation Center (ECIC), we believe that success is not defined by how quickly one arrives at the finish line but by the strength, courage, and persistence it takes to keep going.

For Delaware educator Alexandra Ruiz, that belief came to life in her journey toward earning the Child Development Associate (CDA®) credential.

When Ms. Ruiz began her CDA® journey, she was eager and determined. Yet, like many early educators balancing work, family, and studies, the path was filled with challenges that tested her resolve. The CDA® exam required focus, confidence, and trust in her own ability, and there were moments when the road felt uncertain.

But Alexandra refused to give up. Guided by her determination and the steady encouragement of Patrice Jones-Cornish, the ECIC’s CDA® Navigator, she found the confidence to keep moving forward.

Behind every success story is a voice that says, “You can do it.” For Alexandra, that voice belonged to Patrice, who reminded her that perseverance is often the bridge between challenge and achievement. Through ongoing guidance, reassurance, and words of belief, Patrice helped her rediscover her strength and resilience.

“I told her she was going to pass,” Patrice recalls. “Sometimes all someone needs is a reminder of their own power. Alexandra just needed to believe it again.”

And she did. When she finally received the news of her success, her joy was contagious. It was a moment of triumph that reflected every ounce of hard work and heart she had poured into her journey.

“I passed!” she wrote, her message overflowing with pride and gratitude. “Thank you for believing in me.”

Alexandra’s story is more than a celebration of one scholar’s success. It is a testament to the resilience within Delaware’s early childhood workforce. Her journey embodies the ECIC mission to empower, support, and elevate the professionals who nurture our youngest learners.

At the ECIC, we do not just prepare educators for exams. We walk beside them through doubts, through restarts, and through breakthroughs until they reach their goals.

💙 Congratulations, Ms. Ruiz.
Your perseverance reflects the spirit of Delaware’s early childhood community: resilient, passionate, and always learning.

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