Pictured are (l. to r.): Katie Jones, Yadira Barrales-Flores, Kim Grosenick and Early Childhood Education instructor Michelle Weirich.

Early Childhood Education (ECE) students at Blackhawk Technical College attended the Wisconsin Early Childhood Association Conference in Middleton Oct. 2–3 through conference scholarships designed to support the professional development of future early childhood educators.

ECE students Katie Jones, Yadira Barrales-Flores and Kim Grosenick attended the two-day conference where they had the opportunity to learn from early childhood professionals, explore current topics and practices in the field, network with educators and other early childhood professionals, and connect what they are learning in the classroom to the realities of the early childhood profession.

“Professional development opportunities like the WECA Conference allow our students to see themselves as members of the early childhood profession while they are still completing their degrees,” said Michelle Weirich, a Blackhawk Early Childhood Education program faculty member. “The opportunity to attend a statewide conference, learn alongside practicing professionals, and build professional connections is an invaluable part of their education.”

Jones said she learned new ways to support children in the classroom. “I enjoy going to the WECA conference, as this was my second time attending. I always learn something new and meet new people,” Jones said. She shared that receiving the conference scholarship made all the difference in her ability to attend.