Quality Enrichment Circles

Quality Enrichment Circles, known as QECs, is an IHSA signature event. QECs, sometimes referred to as communities of practice are a group of people who share a common concern or a passion for something they do and they want to learn how to do it better. Joining a QEC and connecting with colleagues is crucial. These meetings allow us to share ideas, insights, and strategies, fostering a common approach to our work. By collaborating and learning from each other, we can brainstorm solutions and improve our content areas together. Let's seize this opportunity to connect, support, and strengthen ourselves professionally.

The agenda for these QECs will be tailored to your needs, ensuring that you can address the specific areas and challenges that matter most to you. By participating in QECs, you not only gain valuable knowledge but also have the opportunity to shape the discussions and focus on what you need from the meeting.

Currently QECs meet THREE (3) times during the calendar year. QECs meet regionally in the Central, Chicago, North, and South.

• Full registration includes all three (3) QEC meetings
• Prorated fee available
• Discount rate available for group registration
• Lunch w/beverage included: Due to the timing of the QEC meeting, only lunch will be provided for in-person attendees.
• All QEC meetings held from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm CST
• Winter meeting meets virtually - meet as a statewide group 
• **Central Region QECs has a hybrid option. Participation not limited to Central programs - participants from other regions welcome with this option

• Member Registration Fee: $300.00 (in person) / $330.00 (virtual) **virtual option - available for Central QECs only**
• Five or more registrations from the same Agency: $275.00 / $295.00 (virtual option - available for Central QECs only**)
• Non Member Fee: $449.00

Coaching, Mental Health, & Wellness

A QEC for individuals supporting all functions dedicated to foster support, education, and collaboration in the area of coaching and mental health and wellness.

Education & Disabilities

A community for sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices to support children's development. It's a platform to discuss and share effective teaching techniques, strategies, and methods, ensuring every child receives the support they need to thrive.

EHS & Home Visiting

An opportunity for those who support Early Head Start and HomeVisiting functions. This includes individuals who work in center-based or home-based services, as well as those who provide education, health, nutrition, and family support. By participating in this event, you'll have the chance to engage with other EHS/HV professionals. You can listen and learn from one another, network, and establish a professional community.

Family Services & ERSEA

The Family Services & ERSEA QEC provides support for individuals involved in various functions of Family Services and ERSEA, which includes ensuring equitable access to high-quality early childhood education, services, and community resources. This includes helping families, providing parent education, healthcare referrals, and resource assistance, as well as assisting with recruitment, enrollment, and attendance. The platform offers an opportunity for colleagues to discuss and gain insights into how other agencies address Family Services and ERSEA challenges.

Health & Nutrition

The HS/EHS Health & Nutrition QEC is an exceptional opportunity for individuals who are involved in all aspects of health and nutrition to come together and collaborate. This community is made up of professionals who share their knowledge, strategies, expertise, and experiences to address challenges, discuss solutions, and work towards enhancing the quality of health and nutrition services provided in the HS/EHS programs.

For questions, contact Cathy Welsh: cwelsh@ilheadstart.org | 217-381-5007 (cell) | 217-241-3511 (office)