Heads Together for ABI’s Post

Reflecting today on the inspiring 'More Than a Village' conference yesterday and the learning shared from ten years of Blackpool Better Start, Sure Start and much more besides. Thanks so much to Clare Law and to everyone who contributed. One key message for me was the importance of trust and allowing for local difference within accountability and outcomes frameworks and not seeking a simple or over-simplified view of what success and impact could and should look like - striking a balance of consistency where it makes sense with local flexibility. I found Sally Hogg's points about seeking a realistic view of what works and what might be impactful really helpful - bringing the evidence that's available (with healthy questioning of its relevance, especially for minoritised and disadvantaged communities as we discussed last week at the Nesta and Foundations – What Works Centre for Children & Families event on parenting interventions), in particular the common elements of evidence-based practice and change at a systems level, together with the voices and testimonies of local individuals and communities to shape and create local solutions. Really looking forward to contributing to the next stage of the journey, as a member of the Expert Advisory Board and linking to the Common Outcomes for Children and Young People Collaborative.

Growth in personal development with Parents On A Mission. Growing together with Parent Leadership.

In a recent edition of Exchange Every Day dedicated to embracing families, communities, and culture, Monica Wells, our family and community program administrator, shared her deep connection to families and communities and how it positively impacts children's success. "Strong, authentic relationships between our families, students, and educators are key. We must speak life into our students, cheer them on, teach them the skills, and provide the tools they need to be prepared for the future. We must show examples of the power, importance, and necessity of community." Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gc7ur8uu

As we enter a new week, let's remember the fundamental truth that every child has the right to learn. At Evangeline’s Care and Wellness Foundation (ECWF), we are committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent children with special needs from accessing quality education. In too many places, children with special needs are overlooked and excluded from classrooms, missing out on opportunities that every child deserves. But we believe in a future where every child, regardless of their abilities, can walk into a classroom and feel empowered, supported, and capable of achieving great things. This Week’s Focus: We’re shining a light on the importance of inclusive education and how it can transform lives. Through advocacy, community support, and dedicated resources, we aim to ensure that every child, especially those with special needs, has the opportunity to thrive academically and socially. How You Can Help: Join us in this mission. Follow ECWF on LinkedIn, and Facebook to stay updated on how we're working to make education accessible for all. Share our posts, spread the word, and let’s work together to create a world where every child’s right to learn is honored.

This month, our students boldly pitched their ventures in front of their friends and community! It was an inspiring night as students and faculty celebrated a semester of hard work, tackling real-world problems with creative solutions. Here are  list of the ventures our students pitched! Kyle: An app called SpotMe that will connect people with gym partners so they can stay safe and motivated as they prioritize their physical health. Tanner: Fostering creative collaboration among experimental musicians through an online platform called Invitation. Xavier: Fighting loneliness through play; specifically, bringing young adults together to play Gaga Ball. Lydia: A high school program at Hildegard where (primarily homeschooled) high schoolers can approach learning in a new (better) way. She's starting by offering workshops. Caitlen: A community theater that integrates children of all abilities. Vanessa: Making functional nutrition accessible to more people, not a privileged few. She's expanding her insurance offering so that more clients can access her services. Thank you to everyone who came out to support our vision!

What is Individual Education Plan (IEP) see the result #IEP #inclusiveeducation

Head Start challenge: the next time you are in an uber, doctor’s office, elevator, or any waiting situation with another adult, ask them if they have heard of Head Start! This handy graphic gives the elevator speech that can change someone’s life!! It did for me😍❤️📊 #livedexperience #headstart

A big round of applause to Fund My Mission scholarship recipient, Corey Scarpa! 🎉 Congratulations! The mission for Corey's life is to make a positive impact in the local community by empowering individuals through education, mindset, and growth opportunities. Corey envisions a long-term approach to his mission. Here's how he put it when he applied for the scholarship: "This mission is not a one-time occurrence, but rather something that accumulates and compounds over time. The dividends are seen in the form of a more vibrant, resilient, and harmonious community. By investing in individuals, we're investing in our community's future. That's why my mission is so important to me - it's not just about improving individual lives, but about enhancing our collective wellbeing." 💙 At his core, Corey recognizes the benefit of accountability: "Because I want someone to help hold me accountable for my goals and help me achieve the success I know I can have to live a life by design and not by default." Love to see how you're leaning into your life-changing mission, Corey! 👏 To learn more about the self-development programs we offer to young adults under 30, go here: https://bit.ly/3XKIxNr

🎙️ Listen to how one simple idea became a game-changer for both parents and education! 🌟 Discover how community colleges and Head Start Centers found a win-win solution. Tune in as Abigail Seldin shares the story behind this transformative initiative > https://bit.ly/3cSj8z2

Mentorship is a core tenet of apprenticeships, providing the guidance and support necessary for learners to succeed in their chosen fields. In teacher apprenticeships, strong, intentional mentorship ensures new educators are well-prepared and supported as they enter the classroom. We are excited to announce that the Tennessee Grow Your Own Center has been awarded a $500,000 grant through the UT System’s Grand Challenges initiative! This funding will support our Grow Your Own Collaboratory, a project designed to enhance professional development for mentor teachers — a key factor in teacher satisfaction and retention. By investing in high-quality mentorship, this initiative strengthens the apprenticeship model as a sustainable solution to Tennessee’s educator shortage. Learn more about this exciting work ➡️ https://bit.ly/4giBQvp