Overview
NAESP is offering a seven-month course in early learning specifically designed principals, assistant principals, or district leaders to expand their knowledge and skills in best early childhood practices in a virtual online setting. Participants will gain practical resources and knowledge of NAESP’s six early learning competencies outlined in Leading Learning Communities: A Principals Guide to Early Learning and the Early Grades. Participants who wish to earn three graduate credits at zero tuition cost can apply to Bethel University upon course graduation to be a non-degree seeking, individual course student. There is a one-time $200 transcription fee.

“This course has helped me solidify my knowledge of early learning and inspired me with ideas, research, and knowledge to share with my colleagues. I now feel more confident in school meetings with various professionals advocating for the needs of students this age.”
Goals and Learning Outcomes
- Students will gain practical resources and knowledge of NAESP’s six early learning competencies outlined in Leading Learning Communities: A Principals Guide to Early Learning and the Early Grades.
- Students will be able to read, interpret, and analyze lesson content and theorize how to apply the knowledge to their own educational context.
- Students will be able to apply their early learning knowledge and skills within their school or district through a capstone project proposal.
- Students will be able to actively participate in bi-monthly virtual meetings and discussion forums with other students in the program.