Early Educators’ Voices: Why and How Did We Co-Design Research That Translates to Systems Change?

This session guided state leaders, agency representatives, and policy stakeholders through a framework for designing and implementing qualitative research that centers the lived experiences of early childhood professionals. Participants learned how to design research that engages early educators as co-investigators; adopt interviews, focus groups, and storytelling methods that value cultural, linguistic, and community context; and translate findings into actionable workforce policy. We heard directly from members of Wisconsin’s early education workforce as they shared their experiences serving as research co-investigators and highlighted their current roles as steering committee members, advocating for equitable policies, and collaborating with state leaders.

Slide Deck

Presenter Bios and Resources