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This Women’s History Month, we’re honoring the women who don’t just lead—they sustain.
The theme for 2026, "Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future," highlights the vital contributions of women in creating a brighter tomorrow. At BCDI-Atlanta, sustainability involves equitable literacy programs, a well-trained workforce dedicated to early childhood education, and increasing wealth within our communities.
Investing in the leadership of Black women in early childhood education not only uplifts individuals but also lays the groundwork for a richer and more stable future for every child. Their leadership ensures that future generations have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.
Let’s celebrate Women’s History Month together!
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BCDI-Atlanta's 7th Annual Culturally Responsive Early Education & Care Leadership Summit Announcement
We are excited to announce that BCDI-Atlanta's 7th Annual Culturally Responsive Early Education & Care Leadership Summit will take place on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Atlanta Metropolitan State College from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please note the new date and location!
This year’s theme, Afrofuturistic Pathways: Imagining New Horizons, includes workshops, concurrent sessions, and exhibits to explore and enlighten on various topics associated with the theme, specifically around:
- Literacy and Knowledge
- Student and Family Engagement
- Assets and Resources
- Community and Cultural Identity
The intended audience - parents, legislators, and professionals from child-serving agencies/programs, including:
- Early care and education (ECE) LEADERS (Infants-3rd grade from classroom to administration)
- Healthcare Professionals (Neonatal, Pediatric)
- Agency and Community Leaders
- Child Development/ECE Faculty, Trainers, and Consultants
- Parents of young children ages 0-8
Secure your spot today!
As a member of BCDI-Atlanta, you will receive a 15% discount on your tickets and a 2026 Read to Succeed Literacy Kit! This kit will include culturally relevant books and tools for young readers.
Become a BCDI-Atlanta Member.
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Celebrating Literacy and Heritage through Video Story Reads
At BCDI-Atlanta, we are dedicated to ensuring every child sees themselves reflected in the books they read through our Read To Succeed program. Representation matters, and so does a great story. Each month, we’ll be featuring a special Black Video Story Read in our newsletter, shining a spotlight on the incredible work of brilliant Black authors and their vibrant stories. Our goal is to bring these vibrant stories directly to your home to inspire the next generation of readers. We invite you and your little ones to watch, listen, and celebrate the magic of diverse storytelling together.
This month, we are excited to feature Roar Like a Lion by author Hotep. A thought leader and Congressional award-winning writer, Hotep is the founder of MAKE A WAY, an organization dedicated to helping schools, families, and organizations foster a culture of celebration and accountability. He is also the creator, writer, and producer of the popular new anime brand, Black Lion and Cubs. Hotep’s impactful work has earned him nominations for the Presidential Citizens’ Award and recognition as a CNN Hero. He will serve as the keynote speaker for BCDI-Atlanta's 7th Annual Summit.
Roar Like a Lion is filled with self-affirming messages that promote the holistic development of children. Readers will be captivated by the beautifully hand-drawn anime artwork featuring the father and son heroes, Black Lion and Cubs, as they embark on an empowering, confidence-building adventure.
Don't miss your chance to get your copy of Roar Like a Lion signed at the summit! Click here to learn more and purchase your book ahead of the event.
Click here to watch this month’s story!
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L.E.A.N. Lattes & Learning
Tuesday, March 10, 2026 · 6:30 - 8:00 pm
BCDI-Atlanta offers Lattes & Learning as an engaging professional development and networking event designed for ECE leaders. Join our L.E.A.N. Community (Leadership & Equity Advancement Network) gathering for early childhood education (ECE) professionals to connect over coffee and discuss leadership, equity, and inclusion in childcare. BCDI-Atlanta’s L.E.A.N. supports ECE professionals through training and group learning.
Our Lattes & Learning event focuses on workforce development:
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Engaging Discussions: Explore strategies for self-awareness and inclusive workplaces.
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Professional Development: Learn from experts about leadership and career growth in ECE.
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Networking Opportunities: Connect with others committed to improving the ECE workforce.
Whether you are an ECE director, administrator, or educator, Lattes & Learning will give you the tools and support you need to make a difference.
Please share this event with colleagues, relatives, and friends so we can spread the word about what we do and how you can get involved!
Learn more and register.
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Imagining Bright Futures: A Family Literacy Series
Saturday, March 14, 2026 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM
Thursday, March 19, 2026 7:00 PM - 8:15 PM
Imagining Bright Futures is a free, virtual family literacy series hosted by BCDI-Atlanta for parents and caregivers of children ages birth to 8. The series is designed to help families nurture early literacy through joyful, practical, and culturally affirming practices rooted in everyday life.
Sessions are offered in two flexible formats, Talk, Read Thursdays and StoryLab Saturdays, to support families’ schedules. Families may attend one or multiple sessions. The series is part of BCDI-Atlanta’s Read to Succeed program and is supported by the Georgia Reads Community Award.
Learn more and register.
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Quarterly Meetings
Tuesday, April 14, 2026 · 6:30 - 8:00 pm
Join us for a fun and informative gathering at BCDI-Atlanta's Quarterly Village Meeting - let's connect and share ideas! Our Quarterly Village Meeting provides an environment where parents, educators, and early education stakeholders come together to support and advance the quality of life for Black children and their families.
Learn more and register.
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Expand ECE Fellowship Apply Now!
We are excited to offer a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about early childhood education. Our fellowship program is designed to support and empower future educators through hands-on experience, mentorship, and professional development.
Program Highlights:
- Hands-On Experience: Engage in culturally responsive early childhood education practices.
- Mentorship: Receive guidance from experienced educators and professionals in the field.
- Professional Development: Participate in opportunities that enhance your skills and expand your professional network.
- Education Coaching: Fellows will be assigned to an education coach to support their academic journey toward an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Education.
Who Should Apply:
- Individuals passionate about making a difference in early education.
- Those seeking to engage with their communities and advocate for positive change.
- Educators aspiring to grow professionally and expand their impact.
Apply Today!
Take the next step in your career and join our transformative fellowship program.
Learn more and apply.
FAQ
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Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning
State of the Early Care and Education Workforce Factsheet
Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) has released a new fact sheet providing a data-driven snapshot of Georgia’s early care and education (ECE) workforce. The brief summarizes key information on workforce demographics, credentials, salaries, and professional growth opportunities, based on publicly available DECAL data.
Explore the 2026 Workforce Factsheet
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This forum is space for early education stakeholders to connect and share with each other. Start by introducing yourself with areas of interest, posting your relative content, sharing media, or information for advancing equity in early care and education.
LEARN MORE
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