Early Learning System Initiative

September often brings new beginnings—and new people. New colleagues join our teams. Children and families enter new classrooms and programs. We may find ourselves learning new names, building new relationships, or stepping into spaces where we don’t quite know where we fit--just yet.

Connection doesn’t always happen instantly. Sometimes it begins with something small: remembering someone’s name, asking a thoughtful question, making space at the table, or helping someone feel noticed.

This month, we invite you to consider: How might I help someone feel a little more welcomed, seen, or connected?

September brings new routines, relationships, responsibilities-and sometimes, beginnings takes courage.

As you move through this season, remember what you need, not what needs to get done.

What might help you move through this season with a little more ease?

Today is the last day to register for Building Blocks for Teaching Young Children in Inclusive Settings on 9/18 and we only have two spots left! Register here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/L8LmSCzVDi

We are thrilled to announce that registrations for trainings taking place in September, October, November, and December have officially opened!

View and register for sessions on our TeamUp calendar: https://teamup.com/ks8nrw23x2k9s8mkia

Hello, September!

A new month can bring new routines, fuller calendars, transitions, celebrations, and opportunities to reconnect.

We’re excited to kick off September by introducing our Monthly Wellness Calendar! Each month, we’ll share a new calendar filled with gentle prompts, important dates, ELSI happenings, and opportunities to connect, reflect, and care for ourselves and one another.

Throughout the month, we’ll also share smaller wellness invitations inspired by the calendar. There’s no need to do everything. Notice what feels useful, leave what doesn’t, and return whenever you need a moment of connection or care.

What is one thing that would help you move through this month with a little more ease?

Back-to-school season can bring a mix of emotions—excitement, stress, anticipation, overwhelm, and everything in between.

As routines shift and we settle into a new season, this is an invitation to return with care.

Transitions take time. We don’t have to rush our way through them—or navigate them alone.

What would help you feel more supported as you step into this new season?

Registration is open!

Join us at the ELSI Coaching Summit on September 23-24, 2026 at the Chemeketa Center for Business & Industry in Salem, Oregon from 9-4pm.

We are offering two different learning tracks: Practice-Based Coaching and Advanced Coaching Extension.

This FREE in-person event is for coaches and TA professionals - breakfast and lunch are provided!

Register today - space is limited and registration closes September 18th. beavs.es/YTF

Questions? Email [email protected]

Mid-summer can be a reminder that we don't have to wait for a new season, a new week, or a new beginning to reset. Maybe your reset today is three deep breaths, a few minutes outside, or simply giving yourself permission to pause. What will your mini reset look like for you today?

🎉REGISTER TODAY for Bridges to Belonging!

Bridges to Belonging is a free monthly virtual learning series on building bridges and inclusive practices for ourselves, the adult learners we support, and children and families. This event is for DELC-funded TA Professionals and CIT/CLT Leads.

🎤 Throughout the 2026-2027 school year, we will be featuring: Dr. Rosemarie Allen (Center for Equity and Excellence), Lori Cohen (Lori Cohen Consulting), Ilsa Govan, and Richard Kim (Cultures Connecting)

Reserve your spot today - we're excited to learn together! http://beav.es/YiS ✨

In a world that often asks us to do more, move faster, and give more of ourselves, this month's invitation is different.

Pause.
Breathe.
Be Present.

Let good enough be enough.