Head Start WEST

Managers Academy Cohort 4 2/6
2026-02-24 14:00 - 16:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Virtual
The Managers Academy combines collective, small-group, and independent learning to create a dynamic experience. Participants gain leadership essentials, strategies for building strong teams, and practical tools for program design, evaluation, and continuous improvement. They will apply concepts directly to their programs—developing monitoring and evaluation plans, practicing systems thinking, and cultivating meaningful community partnerships.
Most importantly, managers leave with a deeper understanding of their leadership style and the confidence to leverage it in advancing program initiatives, fostering sustainability, and driving long-term success.
Who
The Head Start West Manager’s Academy is designed for current managers and emerging leaders who are ready to strengthen their skills, expand their influence, and prepare for the next step in their leadership journey. By bringing together those already guiding teams and those preparing to step into management roles, the Academy creates a powerful platform for succession planning—ensuring that agencies have a strong pipeline of capable leaders to sustain excellence in Head Start programs.
This experience is especially valuable for individuals navigating the critical transitions into and out of middle management positions, where the ability to balance vision with implementation, and strategy with trust, is most essential. The Academy equips participants with tools, relationships, and perspectives that will not only enhance their own leadership but also elevate the performance and culture of their entire organization.
Where/When
The majority of the course work will take place virtually utilizing the Zoom platform and an interactive learning management resource from 2-4:30pm PST. Participants will meet in Sacramento, CA July 21-22, 2026 for our closing gathering.

1/20/26 – Virtual via Zoom | 2:00-4:30 PM (PST)
2/24/26 – Virtual via Zoom | 2:00-4:30 PM (PST)
3/17/26 – Virtual via Zoom | 2:00-4:30 PM (PST)
5/19/26 – Virtual via Zoom | 2:00-4:30 PM (PST)
6/23/26 – Virtual via Zoom | 2:00-4:30 PM (PST)
7/21/26-7/22/26- In Person in Sacramento, CA

Fees
Member: $1,750.00/person
Non-Member: $1,950.00/person
