Early Learning Conference at COCC Champions ‘Strong Foundations’

April 13, 2026

Expected to draw more than 500 educators from across the region April 24-25, the annual Early Learning Conference of the Oregon Association for the Education of Young Children, for the Central Oregon chapter, is being hosted and coordinated by Central Oregon Community College on the Bend campus.

“This is an annual event that we look forward to every year,” said conference coordinator Amy Howell, COCC professor and program director of early childhood education. “This year’s conference is a collaboration of many regional partners in early learning, including the Early Learning Hub, NeighborImpact-Child Care Resources and Mountain Star.”

Designed for early learning educators, students, learning specialists, administrators and program directors, the event features learning sessions, inspiring speakers and networking opportunities.

Costs vary for members and non-members of the association, but one-day attendance starts at $80, with discounted rates for students and scholarships available. For registration and information, visit earlylearning.co.

With a theme of “Hearts and Minds: Building Strong Foundations with Literacy and Social-Emotional Learning,” the professional development gathering will focus on early literacy and its connection to children’s broader social and emotional learning needs. Session topics include “Connection before Correction,” “Math is Everywhere,” “Sustaining the Heart of the Educator” and “Building Blocks of Skilled Reading.”

A flagship event for early childhood educators in Central Oregon, the conference had its beginnings in 1992 and has evolved into a premier symposium.

For more information, contact Amy Howell at ahowell@cocc.edu or 541-383-7784.