We’re excited to welcome Ronald Tobin-Rivera to the 2026 Educational First Steps Educators Conference!
Ronald is a veteran educator with 10 years of experience in K–12 education and a Master’s in the Science of Education from Johns Hopkins University. He is passionate about child literacy and committed to helping build stronger, more confident readers.
As a member of the Educational First Steps team, Ronald serves as a Trainer and Assessor specializing in ASQ assessments, partnering with early childhood providers to share research-based strategies, strengthen instructional practice, and support high-quality learning environments.
At the conference, Ronald will share his expertise in literacy development and evidence-based instructional strategies that support early learning success.
We look forward to his insight and experience in advancing early childhood education!
We are incredibly honored and grateful to share that Educational First Steps was awarded a generous $100,000 gift from the Alumnae Clubs of @fortworthkkg and @fortworthpiphi during this year’s Design Inspirations benefit in Fort Worth.
This extraordinary support will help us continue expanding access to high-quality early childhood education and strengthening the futures of young children, families, and educators across our communities.
To everyone involved in making this event possible — thank you for believing in our mission and investing in the power of early learning. We are deeply appreciative of your partnership and generosity.
#DesignInspirationsFW #PiBetaPhi #KappaKappaGamma
@fortworthkkg@fortworthpiphi@pibetaphihq@kappakappagamma@designinspirationsfw
We’re excited to welcome Andre Williams to the 2026 Educational First Steps Educators Conference!
Andre is the Center Director at 2nd Step Daycare and Learning Center, where he has served since its founding. He is dedicated to creating a supportive environment where children, families, and staff are encouraged to thrive.
At the conference, Andre will share his perspective on leadership in early childhood education and the power of fostering belief, perseverance, and excellence in learning environments.
We look forward to his insight and passion for early learning!
We’re excited to welcome Dr. LeBrandan Jenkins as the moderator for the 2026 Educational First Steps Educators Conference!
Dr. Jenkins is an experienced educational leader with a strong background in instructional leadership and school transformation. He currently serves as our Manager for Texas School Ready, where he supports early childhood programs in strengthening instructional practices and preparing young learners for academic success.
As a leader committed to equity and student achievement, Dr. Jenkins brings deep expertise in data-driven instruction, staff development, and building systems that support meaningful academic growth.
We look forward to his leadership in guiding this important conversation at the conference!
We’re excited to welcome Aaron Fields to the 2026 Educational First Steps Educators Conference!
Aaron is an educator, fatherhood advocate, and community health worker dedicated to strengthening families and supporting student success. He currently works with Parkland Healthy Start and National Healthy Start, where he focuses on maternal health, family engagement, and community wellness.
At the conference, Aaron will share his perspective on building strong connections between schools, families, and communities, and the important role father engagement plays in supporting positive outcomes for children.
We look forward to his insight and leadership in this important conversation!
Thank you to everyone who showed up for the 13th CCF Annual Forum and the Cost of Poverty Experience (COPE)! We loved bringing this group together.
Huge shoutout to Bill Beamon for leading COPE and creating such a powerful experience.
We couldn’t have done it without our amazing sponsors @tu_cutx , @unitedwaydallas , @educationalfirststeps , and Drs. Margaret and Stuart Owen.
And thank you to our panelists Dr. Timothy Bray, Dr. Holly Kosiewicz, and Lance Rather for such an insightful Big Data conversation.
So grateful for all the organizations and community members who joined us. This work doesn’t happen without you!
#CCFForum #CommunityPartners #BigData #CostOfPoverty #Dallas #Plano #Richardson #NorthTexas
We’re excited to welcome Ezohn Smith to the 2026 Educational First Steps Educators Conference!
Ezohn is a senior early childhood leader and advocate for wellness-centered systems and inclusive leadership in early learning. He currently serves as Director of Child Care Quality and Provider Services Manager at @childcaregroup , where he leads initiatives that strengthen provider capacity, support educator well-being, and improve outcomes for children and families across Texas.
At the conference, Ezohn will share his perspective on building sustainable, people-centered early childhood systems and advancing inclusive leadership in the field.
We’re looking forward to learning from his leadership and expertise!
We’re excited to welcome Ronnie Davis to the 2026 Educational First Steps Educators Conference!
Ronnie is the principal of Collegiate Prep Elementary School in Cedar Hill ISD and brings over a decade of experience in education and school leadership. He is passionate about creating supportive, high-achieving school environments where both students and educators can thrive.
At the conference, Ronnie will share his insights on leadership, student success, and building strong school culture rooted in respect and excellence.
We can’t wait for you to hear from him!
We’re excited to introduce our 2026 Educational First Steps Educators Conference keynote speaker— @bendandabide .
A former teacher, principal, and leader with over 25 years of experience, Tonya understands the real challenges educators face. She is also the founder of Mend + Abide, where her work centers on helping leaders and educators move beyond burnout by embracing rest, mindfulness, and sustainable well-being.
Her message is one we all need: you don’t have to run on empty to make an impact.
Join us for a keynote that will leave you feeling restored, supported, and inspired.
We’re Hiring at Educational First Steps!
We’re looking for passionate professionals who believe in the power of high-quality early childhood education to join our team!
Administrative Support Specialist
Support program coordination, data management, and quality initiatives that help childcare centers thrive.
Assessor & Trainer Specialist
Conduct classroom assessments, provide professional development, and help educators strengthen early learning environments.
If you’re passionate about supporting children, families, and educators, we’d love to hear from you!
Apply here:
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Early childhood educators, this one’s for you.
Our 2026 Educators Conference is designed to support, inspire, and equip you for the work you do every single day.
At this year’s conference, you’ll gain: • Practical strategies you can use immediately • Insight from experienced educators and leaders • Fresh ideas to support school readiness • Meaningful connection with peers who understand your work
Walk away feeling confident, supported, and re-energized—because what you do matters.
Registration is now open for the 2026 Educational First Steps Educators Conference!
Designed with you in mind, this conference features practical strategies, expert insight, and meaningful conversations with fellow educators.
Seating is limited and spots fill quickly every year, so early registration is encouraged.
Partner Centers: Check your email for registration details.
