Childcare Resources Hosts Popular Summer Community of Practice for Local Educators

Early Childhood Education Coach Todd Morrow pictured with participants of the Summer Community of Practice, including early educators from Kendall Academy Preschool, Childcare Resources of Indian River, KidCity USA, First Presbyterian Preschool, RCMA, and Bridges Early Learning Center.

Throughout July, early childhood educators from across Indian River County gathered weekly for Childcare Resources’ Summer Community of Practice, a professional development series led by Early Childhood Education Coach Todd Morrow. This summer session saw such strong interest that it quickly filled and even had a waitlist, showing just how committed local educators are to growth and collaboration.

A community of practice is a collaborative group where educators meet regularly to share successes, discuss challenges, and exchange ideas. In the summer session, participants focused on CLASS assessments, which measure the quality of teacher-child interactions that impact learning and development. Educators reflected on their progress, shared classroom footage, and explored new techniques, leading to stronger relationships, improved instruction, and more positive learning environments.

Childcare Resources’ Summer Community of Practice drew high interest from local early educators, filling quickly and even generating a waitlist.

“This type of collaborative professional development is critical,” says Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “When educators from across the community come together to share ideas, reflect honestly, and support one another, it elevates the quality of care and learning for all children in Indian River County.”

Debbie Ann Simpson of Bridges Early Learning Center said the experience was deeply meaningful. “Being part of this class allowed me to enhance my skills and expertise while gaining support and insight from other educators. I left each session feeling more confident and inspired to grow.”

Community of Practice is part of Childcare Resources’ ongoing commitment to strengthening early education by supporting the professionals who provide it. Additional sessions are already being planned, with more opportunities ahead for local educators to build skills and share ideas.