| | 0 | Maximizing the Day: Building Independence Through Functional & Academic Skills | 2/26/2026 9:00:00 AM | | ESU 7 Special Education | Arndt | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 |  | odie.workshops.Section |
February 26, 2026
Description:
Participants in this workshop will gain an understanding of the importance of beginning with the end goal in mind to develop effective and meaningful programs for students with complex needs. We will envision where we want our students to be in five years, establish broader objectives, and break these down into smaller, actionable goals to create a structured path for learning and skill development. We will explore various curricula and strategies that support academic growth, social skills, life skills, and career readiness for students from upper elementary through age 21.
Dr. Peter Gerhardt emphasized, “Everyone is capable of living and working in the community with the proper supports, and no one should have to earn the right to be in the community.” Participants will leave with the belief that all students are capable of community integration and with practical strategies to continue building meaningful programs for their students.
Participants will:
· Be able to articulate why starting with the end outcome in mind is essential for creating meaningful programs for students with complex needs.
· Recognize the importance of identifying long-term visions for their students and break them down into achievable short-term goals to facilitate effective learning and skill development.
· Learn about various curriculums and strategies that support academic, social, life, and career readiness skills for students from upper elementary through age 21.
· Gain insights from Dr. Peter Gerhardt's work on community inclusion, learn strategies to ensure all students can live and work in the community with appropriate supports, and develop plans to implement this in educational programs.
· Leave with practical techniques to design and implement meaningful and supportive educational programs for students with complex needs, aligning with the vision of community inclusion and participation.
Closed 33 Registered  10 Min; 60 Max
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| | 0 | Getting started with Kickstart Literacy | 2/27/2026 8:30:00 AM | | ESU 7 Professional Development | Richards | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
February 27, 2026
After this session, you will be confident in your ability to do the following:
Describe the four components of Kickstart Literacy" and relate them to classroom
experiences.
Integrate Kickstart Literacy lessons and resources easily into your classroom routine.
Apply the process for using Kickstart Literacy™" digital tools.
This is a zoom only event that Celeste Swoboda will be presenting.
Remote
Open 15 Registered No Min; 40 Max
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| | 0 | Early Learning Guidelines - ZOOM -DAYTIME | 2/27/2026 8:30:00 AM | | ESU 7 ELC | Story | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
February 27, 2026 @ 8:30 AM
THE EARLY LEARNING GUIDELINES: NEBRASKA’S BIRTH TO FIVE LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Early Learning Guidelines training workshops have been created to assist early childhood caregivers/teachers and other adults with information about supporting the learning and development of children.
Please make sure you have a working camera, audio capabilities, and are prepared to engage in the training.
ELG Approaches to Learning 8/29/25
ELG Social and Emotional 9/26/25
ELG Language and Literacy 11/21/25
ELG Mathematics 1/30/26
ELG Creative Arts 2/27/26
ELG Science 4/24/26
ELG Health and Physical 5/29/26
Remote
Closed 30 Registered 10 Min; 40 Max
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| | 0 | Better Together: A Preschool Learning Series | 2/27/2026 1:00:00 PM | | ESU 7 Professional Development | Richards | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
February 27, 2026
Let’s team up for a fun and meaningful learning experience! Mornings will be packed with topics like executive functioning, early math and science, STEAM, family partnerships, Teaching Strategies GOLD, teaming with paraeducators, and NDE updates.
In the afternoon, we’ll hit the road to visit area classrooms, discover creative setups, and gather ideas to take back to your own space. It’s all about learning with and from each other. Participants must provide their own transportation in the afternoon.
FREE for those within ESU 7. Those outside of ESU 7 will be charged a $50 materials fee.
Open 16 Registered No Min; 40 Max
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| | 0 | IPG (Instructional Practice Guide) Training - Option 2 | 3/2/2026 8:30:00 AM | | ESU 7 Professional Development | Koliha | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 2, 2026
The IPG is a classroom observation tool that describes core actions associated with standards-aligned content, effective teaching, and meaningful student engagement. It reveals broad trends in instruction and implementation of materials, allowing leaders to identify professional learning needs, and builds leadership capacity.
This training is required for CLSD grantees and anyone who will be conducting English Language Arts IPG walkthroughs must attend a Regional Literacy Coach training this spring. Non-CLSD grantees are welcome to attend.
Marissa Paysant will be presenting.
Lunch will be one hour on your own.
Open 8 Registered No Min; 50 Max
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| | 0 | Targeted Improvement Plan (TIP) Workshop with NDE | 3/2/2026 9:00:00 AM | | ESU 7 Special Education | Arndt | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 2, 2026
Join ESU 7 and representatives from NDE to learn about this year’s updates to the Targeted Improvement Plan platform and processes. To maximize your day, come with your TIP team and access to your district’s implementation and outcome data so you can develop a TIP that is aligned to your district goals. Teams will receive work time and access to ESU 7 and NDE staff to support you along the way.
Open 62 Registered 10 Min; 65 Max
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| | 0 | EARLY LEARNING GUIDELINES- Weeknight - ZOOM | 3/2/2026 6:00:00 PM | | ESU 7 ELC | Story | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 2, 2026 @ 6:00 PM
THE EARLY LEARNING GUIDELINES: NEBRASKA’S BIRTH TO FIVE LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Early Learning Guidelines training workshops have been created to assist early childhood caregivers/teachers and other adults with information about supporting the learning and development of children.
Please make sure you have a working camera, audio capabilities, and are prepared to engage in the training.
From 6pm -9pm via zoom
December 1 and December 4 - Approaches to Learning
January 8 and January 15 - Social & Emotional
January 26 and January 29 - Language and Literacy
March 2 and March 5 - Mathematics
March 23 and March 26 - Creative Arts
April 13 and April 16 - Science
April 27 and April 30 - Health and Physical
Remote
Open 29 Registered 10 Min; 40 Max
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| | 0 | FCS Network Meeting | 3/3/2026 8:30:00 AM | | ESU 7 Professional Development | Thompson | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 3, 2026
FCS educators from across the ESU 7 region will gather for a collaborative network meeting focused on strengthening their programs. The meeting will provide a valuable opportunity for participants to share insights, exchange ideas, and develop strategies for program improvement through collective problem-solving and collaboration. Participants will also have an opportunity to explore funding opportunities, including Perkins grants and other available resources, to support program growth.
This is an in person only event, that will take place in the north building, Oak/Maple conference rooms.
FREE for those within ESU 7. Those outside of ESU 7 will be charged a $50 materials fee.
Open 12 Registered No Min; 25 Max
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| | 0 | Learning Through Play Zoom Series | 3/3/2026 7:00:00 PM | | ESU 7 ELC | Story | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 3, 2026 @ 7:00 PM
Session 1: Why Play? Free and Guided
Let’s get curious about play and build a strong foundation for understanding its importance in early learning. Together, we will uncover why play is essential in every space where children grow and learn. We will explore the difference between free play and guided play and reflect on how play shapes children’s thinking, builds their confidence, and strengthens their relationships with one another.
Play is so much more than something kids do. It is how children become!
If you are ready to get curious about how play shapes children’s brains, supports their development, and builds their confidence, come join this five-session series. Together we will explore ten different types of play, defining each one, watching it in action, and discovering why it matters so deeply for children. We will practice documenting play for our communities, Step Up to Quality experts, families, and most importantly, for our kids. Come ready to laugh, learn, and rediscover the incredible power of play, because only when we truly understand it can we honor both play and early childhood.
Remote
Open 22 Registered 10 Min; 50 Max
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| | 0 | Decode, Respond, Transform Challenging Behaviors | 3/5/2026 7:00:00 PM | | ESU 7 ELC | Story | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 5, 2026
7-part advanced challenging behaviors series designed for experienced practitioners, this series explores the root causes of complex behaviors and offers practical tools for transforming challenges into opportunities for growth. Participants will learn advanced intervention techniques that promote safety, connection, and long-term positive behavior change.
Session 1: Self-Regulation & Mindfulness
Session 2: Relationships with Difficult Kids
Session 3: Engagement through Child-Led Play/Project Work
Session 4: Focused Observation for Challenging Behaviors
Session 5: Sensory Needs Presenting as Challenging Behaviors
Session 6: Working with Stressed Families
Session 7: Reclaiming Our Joy in Early Childhood
Remote
Closed 50 Registered 10 Min; 50 Max
|
| | 0 | Columbus Early Childhood Conference 2026 | 3/7/2026 8:00:00 AM | | ESU 7 ELC | Story | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 7, 2026 @ 8:00 AM
COLUMBUS EARLY CHILDHOOD CONFERENCE 2026
This conference reinforces the importance of nurturing mental health in early childhood settings, equipping participants with tools, resources, and knowledge to create inclusive, supportive environments where all children can thrive socially, emotionally, and behaviorally.
8:00 AM - OPEN/WELCOME/SIGN IN/PARTICIPANTS LOCATION
8:30AM -9:30AM - ROUND 1
9:30AM -9:40AM - 10 MINUTE BREAK
9:40AM -10:40AM - ROUND 2
10:40AM -10:50AM - 10 MINUTE BREAK
10:50AM -11:50AM - ROUND 3
11:50AM -NOON - 10 MINUTE BREAK
NOON - 1PM - ROUND 4
Open 65 Registered 40 Min; 100 Max
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| | 0 | Meaningful, Mindful, Motivational Mondays - Zoom | 3/9/2026 1:00:00 PM | | ESU 7 ELC | Story | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 9, 2026 @ 1:00 PM
March 9: Meaningful
Following the Leader
Who should lead the learning in an early childhood program? If children can be trusted to lead their
own learning, what does this look like? How do educators learn to “let go” and accept not being the
smartest person in the room? This discussion will explore the benefits of developing creative,
independent thinkers in an environment where the children are the leaders in their learning.
Remote
Open 8 Registered 10 Min; 40 Max
|
| | 0 | Business Teachers Network Meeting | 3/10/2026 8:30:00 AM | | ESU 7 Professional Development | Thompson | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 10, 2026
BMIT (Business) educators from across the ESU 7 region will gather for a collaborative network meeting focused on strengthening their programs. The meeting will provide a valuable opportunity for participants to share insights, exchange ideas, and develop strategies for program improvement through collective problem-solving and collaboration. Participants will also have an opportunity to explore funding opportunities, including Perkins grants and other available resources, to support program growth.
This is an in person only event, that will be taking place in the north building, Oak/Maple conference rooms.
FREE for those within ESU 7. Those outside of ESU 7 will be charged a $50 materials fee.
Lunch will be one hour on your own.
Open 6 Registered No Min; 25 Max
|
| | 0 | ESU 7 Superintendent Meeting | 3/10/2026 9:00:00 AM | | ESU 7 Admin | Morsett | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 10, 2026
Superintendent Meeting.
Breakfast will be served.
Open 14 Registered No Min; 20 Max
|
| | 0 | Career Opportunity Fair at Central Community College | 3/10/2026 9:00:00 AM | | ESU 7 Special Education | Arndt | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 10, 2026
More information to come...
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| | 0 | Learning Through Play Zoom Series | 3/10/2026 7:00:00 PM | | ESU 7 ELC | Story | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 10, 2026 @ 7:00 PM
Session 2: Big Body, Outdoor, and Nature Play
Get ready to move, stretch, and step outside! In this session, we will celebrate big body play, outdoor exploration, and the magic of nature play. Discover how these experiences support healthy development, build resilience, and connect children to the world around them. We will share simple ways to invite adventure and curiosity into your play spaces with no fancy equipment required.
Play is so much more than something kids do. It is how children become!
If you are ready to get curious about how play shapes children’s brains, supports their development, and builds their confidence, come join this five-session series. Together we will explore ten different types of play, defining each one, watching it in action, and discovering why it matters so deeply for children. We will practice documenting play for our communities, Step Up to Quality experts, families, and most importantly, for our kids. Come ready to laugh, learn, and rediscover the incredible power of play, because only when we truly understand it can we honor both play and early childhood.
Remote
Open 10 Registered 10 Min; 50 Max
|
| | 0 | Books! Books! Books! - ZOOM | 3/11/2026 1:00:00 PM | | ESU 7 ELC | Story | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 11, 2026
Bring learning to life with engaging children's literature! Get introduced to a treasure trove of children's books aligned with each ELG domain!
This series of sessions explores how high-quality children's books can be powerful tools to support teaching and learning across all areas of the Early Learning Guidelines (ELG) domains.
August 13 - Approaches to Learning
September10 - Social & Emotional
December 10 - Language & Literacy
February 11 - Creative Arts
March 11 - Mathematics
April 8 - Science
May 13 - Health & Physical
Remote
Closed 6 Registered 10 Min; 40 Max
|
| | 0 | Books! Books! Books! - ZOOM -2026 | 3/11/2026 1:00:00 PM | | ESU 7 ELC | Story | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 11, 2026
Bring learning to life with engaging children's literature! Get introduced to a treasure trove of children's books aligned with each ELG domain!
This series of sessions explores how high-quality children's books can be powerful tools to support teaching and learning across all areas of the Early Learning Guidelines (ELG) domains.
February 11 - Creative Arts
March 11 - Mathematics
April 8 - Science
May 13 - Health & Physical
Remote
Open 2 Registered 8 Min; 40 Max
|
| | 0 | PV ELC Partnership Meetings 2025-2026 | 3/13/2026 9:00:00 AM | | ESU 7 ELC | Story | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 13, 2026
Purpose: Involvement in Platte Valley’s Partnership provides opportunities to participate in the early childhood leadership, community, strengthen local, state, and national early childhood initiatives, promote quality and distributing of early childhood professional development opportunities and information. Together we are stronger!
Collaborate with partners, discuss ELC grant for 2025-2026, and hear updates from partners.
Open 11 Registered 5 Min; 40 Max
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| | 0 | Meaningful, Mindful, Motivational Mondays - Zoom | 3/16/2026 1:00:00 PM | | ESU 7 ELC | Story | System.Collections.Generic.List`1[odie.workshops.Facilitator] | | 0.00 | | odie.workshops.Section |
March 16, 2026 @ 1:00 PM
March 16: Motivational
Are You Ready to Thrive?
Thriving means to flourish, grow, and develop. But our energy is drained and being our best selves can
be challenging. Join this session full of discussion and self-reflection to help you experience higher levels
of engagement and boost your energy. You’ll leave ready to reconnect with the joy and wonder of being
an early childhood educator!
Open 2 Registered 10 Min; 40 Max
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