IEECE
Institute of Excellence in Early Care & Education (IEECE)
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WE ARE EDUCATORS OF THE FUTURE
We believe our children are our future.
From birth to 5 years of age, we educate our future leaders and members of society. We are educators of the early childhood workforce, whose teaching practices will make the difference in the success of children. We are trainers, advisors, educators and mentors. We are experts in the field of early childhood education. The mission of the Institute of Excellence in Early Care and Education is to provide the child care workforce of Palm Beach County with a comprehensive approach to career development in the field of early childhood education.
I AM A
Our trained and skilled career advisors assist the early childhood practitioner in navigating the pathways of professional development.
Through advising sessions, either in person, by phone, or through web advising, career advisors can point the practitioner in the right direction.
Based on a practitioner's personal professional goals, career advisors can provide information, identify and access resources, help set goals and priorities, select an appropriate path, and assist a practitioner in putting together a career plan that will lead to obtaining those goals.
Find your Career Advisor
Early Learning Career Advising Director
Debra Strange
stranged@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3670
E. L. Professional Development Coordinator
Evelyn Gomez (Spanish Speaking)
gomeze@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3954
E.L. Education Success Center Manager
Laura McCadden
mccaddel@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3998
Career Advisors
Career Advisor/Scholarship Coordinator II
Christina Barone
baronec@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3674
Raquel Gary
garyr@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3782
Myriam Torres (Spanish Speaking)
torresm1@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3953
Career Advisor/Scholarship Coordinator I
Darlene Williams
williaad@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3997
Tutoring
Through our Education Success Center we provide innovative academic tutoring support to all Palm Beach County early childhood education practitioners.
The Institute's tutors provide a comfortable, learner-centered environment that offers face-to-face and online tutoring in all academic areas, ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), test-taking skills and computer skills.
Learn more about our ESOL program.
Register for Classes & Submit a SEEK Scholarship Application
The SEEK scholarship deadline for college credit, prep, ECPC/FCCPC, and non-credit language classes for the 2021 spring semester at Palm Beach State College is Tuesday, November 17, 2020 by 5:00pm.
Dates and Deadlines
Find your Financial Support Specialist
Program Grant Manager
Zachary Scuderi
scuderiz@palmbeachstate.edu
561-868-3828
Program Manager, Operations
Stacey Garnett
garnetts@palmbeachstate.edu
561-868-3669
Fiscal Specialist
Sheila Meeks
ducrams@palmbeachstate.edu
561-868-3662
Program Specialist
Marklin Green
greenm@palmbeachstate.edu
561-868-3695
ACHIEVE - Salary Supplement Award
ACHIEVE is a salary supplement award program for practitioners employed at a Strong Minds In-Network or Promising Early Childhood program in Palm Beach County.
ACHIEVE awards are intended to encourage ongoing professional development and to reduce turnover at early childhood education programs by providing monetary awards for completion of specific college credit classes and/or non-college credit Registry-approved trainings.
Learn more about ACHIEVE (English)
ACHIEVE (Spanish)
ACHIEVE eligibility is based on:
- Employed at the same In-Network or Promising Site for at least one consecutive year (12 months) at the time of application submission
- Work with children ages birth-5 years, for at least 20 hours per week on an annual basis
- Eligible Positions: Director, Assistant Director, Curriculum Specialist, Lead Teacher, Associate Teacher, Floater, Family Child Care Home Provider, Large Family Child Care Home Employee
- Active member of the Palm Beach County Early Childhood Registry and all registry documentation, including transcripts, must be up to date
- Eligible for SEEK Scholarship (i.e. not on suspension)
- Earn $17.00 or less per hour as an early childhood professional
1. Log-in to your Registry account at www.pbcregistry.org.
2. Click the Financial Support tab.
3. Click "Apply for Financial Support".
4. Scholarship Type Page: Click the "ACHIEVE" option and
then click "Continue".
5. Review eligibility requirements, then click "Continue".
6. Review participant agreement.
7. Click the "I Agree" box, then press "Save".
8. Click "Finish".
9. Email or fax your W-9 Form and most
recent pay stub
to iefaxes@palmbeachstate.edu or (561)
868-7042.
Required Application Documents
All Applicants
Must submit a complete and typed W9 Form
Center Employees or Large Family Child Care Employees
Must submit most recent pay stub from site of employment
Family Child Care Providers/Owners
If a pay stub cannot be provided, must submit most recent tax documentation (Form
1040 and 1040 Schedule C, if applicable)
Center Owners
If a pay stub cannot be provided, must submit most recent tax documentation (Form
1040 and 1040 Schedule C, if Applicable)
Applications and related forms can be submitted at any time!
Required documentation must be received via fax 561-868-7042 or email: IEECE@palmbeachstate.edu
Call 561-868-3695 to verify that completed application was submitted.
ACHIEVE Frequently Asked Questions
Questions?
Please contact your Career Advisor or Zachary Scuderi at 561-868-3828 or scuderiz@palmbeachstate.edu
Other Scholarships
Palm Beach State College offers a wide range of scholarships for students. Visit the College's Scholarships page for more information.
The Teacher Education and Compensation Helps (T.E.A.C.H.) Early Childhood® Scholarship program provides scholarships for early care educators and center directors to work towards earning an associate's degree or credentials in early childhood education.
It is funded by the Florida Office of Early Learning and involves a three-way partnership for the sharing of expenses by the caregiver receiving the scholarship, the sponsoring child care center or family child care home and T.E.A.C.H.
For more information, visit the T.E.A.C.H. website or call 877-FL-TEACH.
The Institute of Excellence provides professional development opportunities that meet the diverse needs and wants of early childhood educators serving young children throughout our county.
Whether you are an entry level practitioner or an advanced professional, our community-based approach to training offers you alternative pathways in your personal career development.
All of our trainings are outcomes driven, focusing on knowledge and skills needed to make a difference in the workplace.
What's in it for you?
- Quality Assured trainers and trainings
- Quality trainings that improve teaching practice that leads to child success
- Foundation for success in credit classes
Trainings will:
- Meet at convenient times
- Provide Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
- Provide the professional development necessary to move you along your chosen career path in early education
- Meet certificate renewal requirements
Learn why you should take trainings with us.
2020 HEO Course Catalog
Find your Trainer
E.L. Prof Dev Project Director
Monica Walley
walleym@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3827
Administrative Assistant II
Jenna GonzalezdelValle
gonzalj@palmbeachstate.edu
(561)868-3995
Program Grant Managers
Marilys Galindo, Research
galindom@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3667
Katherine Johnson, Curriculum
johnsokm@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3694
Instructional Designers
Amy Allen
deckera@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3675
Kristen Curley
curleyk@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3956
Karen Darter
darterk@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3668
Michelle Immekus
immekusm@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3673
Benjamin Occelin
occelinb@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-4004
Education Coordinators
Patricia Ortiz-Gutierrez
ortizgp@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3676
Nicole Rice
ricen@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3648
Becky Slack
slackr@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3829
Training Resources & Links
HEO Courses
The Institute of Excellence creates and designs high-quality, outcomes driven non-credit courses that are Palm Beach County Registry Approved and quality assured.
All non-credit courses are developed using the backward design to ensure transfer of learning to the workplace and give opportunities for the early childhood professional to practice new skills in the training.
Full Course Schedule with SEEK Scholarship Deadlines & Flyers
Associate in Science: Child Development and Education
This program is designed for the student who wishes to enter the field of early childhood as an educator/caregiver.
The course content provides the student with a thorough background in all aspects of child development as well as expanding his/her classroom knowledge into a practical hands-on teaching experience in a Montessori Track and a High/Scope Track.
Approved college credit certificate programs include Child Care Center Management, Infant/Toddler, and Preschool.
Childcare Certificate Training Program
Palm Beach State College Child Care program consists of certification programs.
40 Hr. Childcare Certificate
30 Hr. Family Childcare Certificate
ECPC (Early Childhood Professional Certificate)
FCCPC (Florida Child Care Professional Credential)
Florida School-Age Certification Training Program
The Florida School Age Certification Training program at Palm Beach State College
is a competency-based program for individuals who work with school age children.
The program consists of 40 hr. School Age Certificate and 80 hr. School Age Professional Certificate (SAPC).
FIU Early Childhood Education: Early Childhood Development Track
FIU Online’s bachelor of science in early childhood education is a fully online program
that focuses on learning and development during the early childhood years.
The undergraduate degree addresses the development of the whole child.
You’ll learn about cognitive, language and social/emotional development of young children,
as well as general and early education theory and practices.
Teachstone
Teachstone offers trainings for coaches, teachers and observers that improves the
effectiveness of education by building a bridge between research and classrooms using
the CLASS observation tool.
The Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill
The Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute provides information about current
research of issues facing young children and families, resources for teachers and
parents, and free videos and vignettes available online.
Coursera
Coursera is an education platform that partners with top universities and organizations
worldwide, to offer courses online for anyone to take, for free.
Early Childhood Investigations
Early Childhood Investigations offers free webinars to early childhood educators.
The series is produced by Engagement Strategies, LLC., and presented by leading authors, experts, and leaders.
FAU: Bachelor’s in Early Care and Education
The Bachelor in Early Care and Education (BECE) degree is designed to prepare teachers and
related personnel for employment in the fields of child care and children’s services,
working with young children from birth to age five.
ChildCare Education Institute
ChildCare Education Institute (CCEI) specializes in providing online training and
certificates, child care registry development, and administrative solutions for the
early care and education industry.
As a leading distance training provider in child care, CCEI offers professionals 100+
online child care training courses in English and Spanish to meet licensing, recognition
program, and Head Start requirements.
Penn State Extension: Better Kid Care
Better Kid Care provides professional development to early-care and youth development
professionals to improve the quality of their care and educational practices.
Walden University: Online Education Degrees
Walden University offers a wide variety of online education degree programs that can
help early childhood teachers take their career further while effecting positive change
in the education field.
McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership
The McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership offers a range of online professional
development opportunities that can help early childhood administrators or leaders
strengthen their leadership skills and drive organizational change.
Erikson Institute
Erikson Institute is an independent institution of higher education that prepares
child development and family service professionals for leadership.
Erikson’s distance learning programs offer the best preparation early childhood teachers can get to teach and care for young children.
Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center (ECLKC)
Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center (ECLKC) is the official online information and resource site for Office of Head Start (OHS).
It provides timely information, learning opportunities, and comprehensive resources to the Head Start and Early Head Start communities and others involved in early childhood education.
Best practices in early childhood education are grounded in quality education and trainings. Our commitment to continuous improvement in learning environments has led us to focus on the following research-based initiatives; STEAM, social-emotional learning and ESOL.
STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math)
Learn about our STEAM initiative.
Social-Emotional Learning
Learn about our social-emotional learning initiative.
ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)
New Student Tutorials
Below is information to help you succeed as an online or in-class student.
Tutorial on how to become a student in the Corporate and Continuing Education program.
Tutorial on how to locate and register for trainings provided by the Institute of Excellence.
Are you thinking about taking an online course? To find out if online learning is right for you, view a video that introduces you to online learning through the Institute of Excellence.
Please note:
- Unless otherwise indicated, students who enroll must have a working knowledge of the English language.
- All students driving a motor vehicle on campus must obtain a Palm Beach State parking permit.
Blackboard Tutorials
Before enrolling in an online or hybrid course take a few minutes to read the Student Success Tips under the eLearning Department to make sure that online learning is right for you.
- Student Success Tips
- Is online learning right for you?
- Student Tutorials and eLearning FAQs
- Online learning through the IEECE at PBSC
- How to navigate the IEECE hybrid courses
- How to participate in Blackboard Collaborate webinar
- How to participate in a discussion on Blackboard
- How to take a Quiz (hybrid course)
- How to submit assignments on Blackboard
You will be most successful if you are knowledgeable about what it takes to successfully complete a hybrid or online course.
Whether curious about or interested in the early childhood education field, our career advisors offer support and guidance to persons in Palm Beach County who want to explore how to begin their professional development in early childhood education.
Learn more about our unique approach to career advising.
Find your Career Advisor
Early Learning Career Advising Director
Debra Strange
stranged@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3670
E. L. Professional Development Coordinator
Evelyn Gomez (Spanish Speaking)
gomeze@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3954
E.L. Education Success Center Manager
Laura McCadden
mccaddel@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3998
Career Advisors
Career Advisor/Scholarship Coordinator II
Christina Barone
baronec@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3674
Raquel Gary
garyr@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3782
Myriam Torres (Spanish Speaking)
torresm1@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3953
Career Advisor/Scholarship Coordinator I
Darlene Williams
williaad@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3997
Seeking Excellence and Education through Knowledge (SEEK) is a scholarship program dedicated to improving the quality of Palm Beach County early childhood education environments through staff development.
SEEK scholarship is funded by the Children's Services Council and administered by Palm Beach State College through the IEECE.
Funds are available to help pay costs associated with credit coursework, non-credit coursework, books, approved trainings, testing fees, and foreign degree translation/evaluation.
Find your Financial Support Specialist
Program Grant Manager
Zachary Scuderi
scuderiz@palmbeachstate.edu
561-868-3828
Program Manager, Operations
Stacey Garnett
garnetts@palmbeachstate.edu
561-868-3669
Fiscal Specialist
Sheila Meeks
ducrams@palmbeachstate.edu
561-868-3662
Program Specialist
Marklin Green
greenm@palmbeachstate.edu
561-868-3695
Learn more about SEEK Scholarship (English)
SEEK Scholarship (Spanish)
A SEEK scholarship application must be submitted each time a SEEK scholarship award is requested, along with registration information for coursework, trainings or other required documentation.
For each application submitted, the practitioner will receive a letter regarding the status of the SEEK scholarship award.
The scholarship application must be completed in its entirety by the practitioner. Submission of a SEEK Scholarship application indicates that the practitioner has read and agrees to abide by both the Participant Agreement and Recipient Responsibilities.
SEEK Scholarship Handbook
1. Login to your Registry account at
www.pbcregistry.org.
2. Click the Financial Support tab.
3. Click "Apply for Financial Support".
4. Scholarship Type Page: Click on the option you are
applying for and then click "Continue".
5. Review eligibility requirements, then click
"Continue".
6. Enter your Student ID# and course start date (if
applicable).
7. Upload scholarship documentation (e.g. course
schedule, proof of registration).
8. Click "Continue".
9. Review SEEK Scholarship participation agreement
and click "I agree".
10. Click "Save" and then "Finish".
The Institute of Excellence provides professional development opportunities that meet the diverse needs and wants of early childhood educators serving young children throughout our county.
Whether you are an entry level practitioner or an advanced professional, our community-based approach to training offers you alternative pathways in your personal career development.
All of our trainings are outcomes driven, focusing on knowledge and skills needed to make a difference in the workplace.
Find your Trainer
E.L. Prof Dev Project Director
Monica Walley
walleym@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3827
Administrative Assistant II
Jenna GonzalezdelValle
gonzalj@palmbeachstate.edu
(561)868-3995
Program Grant Managers
Marilys Galindo, Research
galindom@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3667
Katherine Johnson, Curriculum
johnsokm@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3694
Instructional Designers
Amy Allen
deckera@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3675
Kristen Curley
curleyk@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3956
Karen Darter
darterk@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3668
Michelle Immekus
immekusm@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3673
Benjamin Occelin
occelinb@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-4004
Education Coordinators
Patricia Ortiz-Gutierrez
ortizgp@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3676
Nicole Rice
ricen@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3648
Becky Slack
slackr@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3829
What's in it for you?
- Quality Assured trainers and trainings
- Quality trainings that improve teaching practice that leads to child success
- Foundation for success in credit classes
Trainings will:
- Meet at convenient times
- Provide Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
- Provide the professional development necessary to move you along your chosen career path in early education
- Meet certificate renewal requirements
Learn why you should take trainings with us.
2020 HEO Course Catalog
HEO Courses
The Institute of Excellence creates and designs high-quality, outcomes driven non-credit courses that are Palm Beach County Registry Approved and quality assured.
All non-credit courses are developed using the backward design to ensure transfer of learning to the workplace and give opportunities for the early childhood professional to practice new skills in the training.
Full Course Schedule with SEEK Scholarship Deadlines & Flyers
Associate in Science: Child Development and Education
This program is designed for the student who wishes to enter the field of early childhood as an educator/caregiver.
The course content provides the student with a thorough background in all aspects of child development as well as expanding his/her classroom knowledge into a practical hands-on teaching experience in a Montessori Track and a High/Scope Track.
Approved college credit certificate programs include Child Care Center Management, Infant/Toddler, and Preschool.
Childcare Certificate Training Program
Palm Beach State College Child Care program consists of certification programs.
40 Hr. Childcare Certificate
30 Hr. Family Childcare Certificate
ECPC (Early Childhood Professional Certificate)
FCCPC (Florida Child Care Professional Credential)
Florida School-Age Certification Training Program
The Florida School Age Certification Training program at Palm Beach State College
is a competency-based program for individuals who work with school age children.
The program consists of 40 hr. School Age Certificate and 80 hr. School Age Professional Certificate (SAPC).
FIU Early Childhood Education: Early Childhood Development Track
FIU Online’s bachelor of science in early childhood education is a fully online program
that focuses on learning and development during the early childhood years.
The undergraduate degree addresses the development of the whole child.
You’ll learn about cognitive, language and social/emotional development of young children,
as well as general and early education theory and practices.
Teachstone
Teachstone offers trainings for coaches, teachers and observers that improves the
effectiveness of education by building a bridge between research and classrooms using
the CLASS observation tool.
The Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina
at Chapel Hill
The Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute provides information about current
research of issues facing young children and families, resources for teachers and
parents, and free videos and vignettes available online.
Coursera
Coursera is an education platform that partners with top universities and organizations
worldwide, to offer courses online for anyone to take, for free.
Early Childhood Investigations
Early Childhood Investigations offers free webinars to early childhood educators.
The series is produced by Engagement Strategies, LLC., and presented by leading authors, experts, and leaders.
FAU: Bachelor’s in Early Care and Education
The Bachelor in Early Care and Education (BECE) degree is designed to prepare teachers and
related personnel for employment in the fields of child care and children’s services,
working with young children from birth to age five.
ChildCare Education Institute
ChildCare Education Institute (CCEI) specializes in providing online training and
certificates, child care registry development, and administrative solutions for the
early care and education industry.
As a leading distance training provider in child care, CCEI offers professionals 100+
online child care training courses in English and Spanish to meet licensing, recognition
program, and Head Start requirements.
Penn State Extension: Better Kid Care
Better Kid Care provides professional development to early-care and youth development
professionals to improve the quality of their care and educational practices.
Walden University: Online Education Degrees
Walden University offers a wide variety of online education degree programs that can
help early childhood teachers take their career further while effecting positive change
in the education field.
McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership
The McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership offers a range of online professional
development opportunities that can help early childhood administrators or leaders
strengthen their leadership skills and drive organizational change.
Erikson Institute
Erikson Institute is an independent institution of higher education that prepares
child development and family service professionals for leadership.
Erikson’s distance learning programs offer the best preparation early childhood teachers can get to teach and care for young children.
Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center (ECLKC)
Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center (ECLKC) is the official online information and resource site for Office of Head Start (OHS).
It provides timely information, learning opportunities, and comprehensive resources to the Head Start and Early Head Start communities and others involved in early childhood education.
Best practices in early childhood education are grounded in quality education and trainings. Our commitment to continuous improvement in learning environments has led us to focus on the following research-based initiatives; STEAM, social-emotional learning and ESOL.
STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math)
Learn about our STEAM initiative.
Social-Emotional Learning
Learn about our social-emotional learning initiative.
ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)
New Student Tutorials
Below is information to help you succeed as an online or in-class student.
Tutorial on how to become a student in the Corporate and Continuing Education program.
Tutorial on how to locate and register for trainings provided by the Institute of Excellence.
Are you thinking about taking an online course? To find out if online learning is right for you, view a video that introduces you to online learning through the Institute of Excellence.
Please note:
- Unless otherwise indicated, students who enroll must have a working knowledge of the English language.
- All students driving a motor vehicle on campus must obtain a Palm Beach State parking permit.
Blackboard Tutorials
Before enrolling in an online or hybrid course take a few minutes to read the Student Success Tips under the eLearning Department to make sure that online learning is right for you.
- Student Success Tips
- Is online learning right for you?
- Student Tutorials and eLearning FAQs
- Online learning through the IEECE at PBSC
- How to navigate the IEECE hybrid courses
- How to participate in Blackboard Collaborate webinar
- How to participate in a discussion on Blackboard
- How to take a Quiz (hybrid course)
- How to submit assignments on Blackboard
You will be most successful if you are knowledgeable about what it takes to successfully complete a hybrid or online course.
STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math)
Our STEAM team has created a website filled with hands-on activities, lessons and resources to help preschool teachers and families find ways to increase creativity, innovation, thinking, learning, and fun while helping children develop an interest in and knowledge of STEAM.
Find your STEAM Advisor
Program Grant Manager
Dan Shinneman
shinnemd@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3608
Education Coordinator
Celestra Alexander
alexandc@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3958
On November 16th the Institute, once again, partnered with the College’s professors, clubs and students to host its second annual STEAM Fest. STEAM Fest 2019 drew over 800 people the Lake Worth campus, where children and families explored STEAM concepts through playful, engaging hands-on activities.
View highlights from our second annual STEAM Fest
We are grateful to our sponsors, presenters and volunteers who came out to create such an amazing event! We're looking forward to STEAM Fest 2020 and hope you'll join us then!
This resource was created to support parents with their child's development at home. It could also help to foster stronger partnerships between teachers and parents as they develop and focus on shared early childhood education goals that will lead to positive child outcomes.
Parents Connecting with Pre-K Through Literacy Webinar
This recorded webinar was created from our Interactive Read-Aloud for Preschool (HEO0265) course.
It focuses on building the literacy skills of children as parents build literacy enrichment in their homes.
This will lead to a stronger partnership between parents and teachers as they focus on shared goals related to literacy for children three to five years old.
Resources for Center Leaders
This online resource guide was created to provide you, the center leader, with the necessary tools to support your staff to become successful in progressing along their chosen career pathway and achieving their professional development goals!
Find your Trainers
E.L. Prof Dev Project Director
Monica Walley
walleym@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3827
Administrative Assistant II
Jenna GonzalezdelValle
gonzalj@palmbeachstate.edu
(561)868-3995
Program Grant Manager
Katherine Johnson, Curriculum
johnsokm@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3694
Instructional Designer
Michelle Immekus
immekusm@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3673
Education Coordinator
Nicole Rice
ricen@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3648
These trainings are designed for child care directors, assistant directors, curriculum
specialist, family child care homes and after-school directors.
The track focuses on leadership and program management skills in personal and professional development, professional communication strategies, performance management, presentation skills, facilitative leadership, and program evaluation.
Each course is a series that has required assignments to support theory to workplace outcomes.
To successfully complete the series, students must complete the course requirements.
HEO0202: Foundations of Outcomes Driven Training (Online Blackboard)
This course will prepare trainers to deliver trainings to early childhood practitioners
using the Center Trainer Modules, which will result in the achievement of intended
outcomes.
Trainers will learn principles of adult learning and ways to address different learning styles.
Trainers will also learn how to create and maintain environments conducive to learning by managing disturbances and by using active training techniques and effective training aids.
HEO0233: Growing Your Staff While Growing Yourself
This course prepares early childhood center managers to assess their professional
strengths and areas of growth using reflective practice and the Practitioner and Director
Florida Core Competencies for Early Childhood Practitioners as well as guiding their
staff in developing an individual career plan for professional growth.
HEO0236: Introduction to Community of Practice (COP) for Center Leaders
This course introduces child care center directors, assistant directors and curriculum
specialists to the concept, benefits and processes of communities of practice/critical
friends groups to support reflective practice, collaboration and improved learning
outcomes for children.
HEO0247: Observation and Feedback
This course provides early childhood center leaders with knowledge and skills to implement
routine staff observation and feedback to improve classroom practices and interactions.
Communities of Practice for Center Leaders
The Institute of Excellence believes that communities of practice that interact regularly are key to improving performance both from an individual and a program perspective.
Communities of practice are about collective learning and reflection, and shared practice to enhance staff growth and development; they are about combined knowledge and experience, collective reflection, and on-going collaboration.
For center leaders, these communities can help to ensure the design of quality learning environments for children.
To become a Quality Approved Center Trainer, you need to meet the following 3 requirements:
- You are currently employed as a Director, Assistant Director or Curriculum Specialist
- You hold a valid DCF EC Staff Credential
- You have successfully completed HEO0202 Foundations of Outcomes Driven Training
Quality Approved Center Trainers are qualified to provide training via the Center Trainer Modules to the professional staff at your center as well as sister sites (defined as sites owned by the same owner/entity).
Center Trainers are eligible to checkout Center Training Modules created by the Institute. These modules include scripted training sessions, PowerPoints, handouts and assessments.
Renewal requirements include the completion of 10 clock hours of continuing education in adult learning and/or early care and education annually.
Documentation must be provided to validate claims of professional development.
For more information, please contact: Nicole Rice at ricen@palmbeachstate.edu.
Center Trainer Manual
A Center Trainer Manual is a 2 hour multi-media training kit which includes a training script, visual aids, materials for all activities and exercises, and an observation tool so that the trainer can ensure what has been learned in the training translates to changed behavior in the classroom.
Center Trainer Manuals are available for check out by a Center Trainer or Quality Approved Trainer.
Center Trainer Manuals must be completed in a series of two manuals to be considered Quality Approved. The two manuals must be completed within thirty (30) calendar days.
Your curiosity and commitment to high quality center leadership led you to this webpage.
Get ready to explore the Center Leader Advising Toolbox, a comprehensive career planning resource guide!
The toolbox offers designated leaders of child care centers like you the support you need to guide your staff as they progress along their career pathway and accomplish professional development goals that lead to positive child outcomes.
Because you strive daily to promote a culture of quality teaching, we’ve created a user-friendly guide which provides tips and tools to help your staff achieve success in the following seven areas:
Non-credit Early Childhood Courses
How to Navigate the Director’s Portal to Create a QIP, Using a Smart Goal
Developmental Supervision to Support Conscious Discipline
Observation and Feedback to Support Conscious Discipline
Reflective Practice to Support Conscious Discipline
The Institute of Excellence manages the Palm Beach County Trainer/Training Registry. This registry assures the quality of trainers and trainings provided in the county.
Find your Trainer
E.L. Prof Dev Project Director
Monica Walley
walleym@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3827
Administrative Assistant II
Jenna GonzalezdelValle
gonzalj@palmbeachstate.edu
(561)868-3995
Program Grant Managers
Marilys Galindo, Research
galindom@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3667
Katherine Johnson, Curriculum
johnsokm@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3694
Education Coordinator
Nicole Rice
ricen@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3648
Benefits of Becoming a Quality Assured Trainer
You will be a member of a respected cadre of Quality Assured training professionals delivering outcomes driven training to the early childhood workforce.
As a Quality Assured trainer, you may be eligible to offer training to practitioners who can access SEEK scholarships to attend your training events.
Steps to Become a Quality Assured Trainer
Please contact Nicole Rice at (561) 868-3648 or ricen@palmbeachstate.edu for the application and instructions for applying.
Please follow the instructions below when completing your online application.
- Fill out all the required fields on the application
- Submit copies of all college transcripts, certifications and credentials
- Submit a current resume
- Submit 2 letters of professional reference
- Submit the completed application, along with all applicable supporting documentation via email or fax
In addition to submitting an online Trainer Application along with the outlined supporting documentation, applicants must complete required trainings.
Once the application and supporting documentation are received and processed, the applicant will receive communication from the Institute identifying the next steps necessary to become a Quality Assured Trainer.
Training/Trainer Policies & Procedures
Trainer E-Core Registration
This series of online and face-to-face courses enhances the quality of trainings for early care and education practitioners by providing trainers with knowledge and skills related to training delivery and principles of adult learning.
Before you can begin this series, you must first apply to become a Palm Beach County Quality Assured Trainer.
Once you receive your welcome letter from the Institute, you may register for the first course in the series by clicking on the link below and filling out the form.
Once your form is processed, specific information on how to access the first course in the series will be sent to you via email.
Trainer Approval Series Registration Form
ODT Assessments Training Registration Form
Online Core Competencies
Thank you for your interest in the Palm Beach County's Core Competencies for Early Childcare and Education Professionals!
To gain access to an online introduction to the core competencies, please click on the link below and fill out the registration form. Once your form is processed, specific information on how to access the presentation will be sent to you via email.
Online Core Competencies Introduction Registration Form
Trainer Approval Series Training Info
This training track is designed for professionals who design instruction for adult learners. The courses demonstrate professional presentation and training skills based on best practices in business and education. The series focuses on principles of adult learning, transfer of learning to the workplace, and the backward design. To successfully complete the course, students must complete the course requirements.
Before you can begin the Trainer Approval Series, you must first apply to become a Palm Beach County Registry-Approved Trainer.
Course #1: Trainer Approval Series Online: An Introduction
This online course is an introduction to Palm Beach County's Professional Development System, the Core Competencies for Early Care and Education Professionals, and Outcomes Driven Training.
This course is a prerequisite for Outcomes Driven Training. There is no fee for this course. Once you apply to the Registry and receive your welcome letter, you will receive information about enrolling in this course.
Once you receive your welcome letter from the Institute, you may register for the first course in the series by clicking on the link below and filling out the form.
Once your form is processed, specific information on how to access the first course in the series will be sent to you via email.
Trainer Approval Series Registration Form
Course #2: Outcomes Driven Training
HEO0203: Outcomes Driven Training (Online Elearning)
For information regarding the Trainer Approval Series, please contact Monica Walley,
(561) 868-3827, walleym@palmbeachstate.edu
The Institute of Excellence supports the quality of trainer and trainings through an effective on-going and systematic outcomes-driven training system.
Quality Assurance Forms
Quality Assurance Trainer Observation Form
Tutorials
How to Complete the Goal Sheet
How to Develop an Implementation Plan
Required Training Forms
Florida Core Competencies
Florida Core Competencies for Early Care and Education Practitioners (English)
Florida Core Competencies for Early Care and Education Practitioners (Spanish)
Florida Core Competencies for Early Care and Education Directors
Florida Core Competencies for Early Care and Education Technical Assistance Specialists
Trainer Competencies and Training Standards
Trainer Competencies and Training Standards for Early Care and Education
Trainer and Training Policies and Procedures
Trainer and Training Policies and Procedures
IEECE
The Early Childhood Education Bulletin
Annual Report
2015 Workforce Study
Community Partnerships
Florida Alliance for Arts Education
Health Council of Southeast Florida
Important Links
Council for Professional Recognition (CDA)
Early Childhood Research and Practice
Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Health Care District of Palm Beach County
Prime Time School Age Care Network
School District of Palm Beach County
University of Florida/IFAS Extension – Palm Beach County
National Associations for Family Childcare
Director
Dr. Grace Kolbe
kolbeg@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3690
Assistant Director
Darcy Russo
russod@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3663
Administrative Assistant
Anitssa Bermudez
bermuda1@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3659
Program Grant Manager, Marketing
Janell Carroll
wildgooj@palmbeachstate.edu
(561)868-3665
Early Learning Career Advising Director
Debra Strange
stranged@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3670
E. L. Professional Development Coordinator
Evelyn Gomez (Spanish Speaking)
gomeze@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3954
E.L. Education Success Center Manager
Laura McCadden
mccaddel@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3998
Career Advisors
Career Advisor/Scholarship Coordinator II
Christina Barone
baronec@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3674
Raquel Gary
garyr@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3782
Myriam Torres (Spanish Speaking)
torresm1@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3953
Career Advisor/Scholarship Coordinator I
Darlene Williams
williaad@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3997
Program Grant Manager
Zachary Scuderi
scuderiz@palmbeachstate.edu
561-868-3828
Program Manager, Operations
Stacey Garnett
garnetts@palmbeachstate.edu
561-868-3669
Fiscal Specialist
Sheila Meeks
ducrams@palmbeachstate.edu
561-868-3662
Program Specialist
Marklin Green
greenm@palmbeachstate.edu
561-868-3695
E.L. Prof Dev Project Director
Monica Walley
walleym@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3827
Administrative Assistant II
Jenna GonzalezdelValle
gonzalj@palmbeachstate.edu
(561)868-3995
Program Grant Managers
Marilys Galindo, Research
galindom@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3667
Katherine Johnson, Curriculum
johnsokm@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3694
Instructional Designers
Amy Allen
deckera@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3675
Kristen Curley
curleyk@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3956
Karen Darter
darterk@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3668
Michelle Immekus
immekusm@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3673
Benjamin Occelin
occelinb@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-4004
Education Coordinators
Patricia Ortiz-Gutierrez
ortizgp@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3676
Nicole Rice
ricen@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3648
Becky Slack
slackr@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3829
Program Grant Manager
Dan Shinneman
shinnemd@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3608
Education Coordinator
Celestra Alexander
alexandc@palmbeachstate.edu
(561) 868-3958
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