As we emerge from the first quarter of program year 2022-23, let’s take a moment to relax, recharge, and refresh. The work of early learning is stressful, and the last couple of years have been especially so. Our children and families deserve our best, and to give our best, we have to be at our best.

I’m impressed by the creative approaches that delegate agencies are taking to make staff wellness a priority, including lounges, retreats, and trauma-informed practices. This fall, LACOE is sponsoring several agencies participating in the UCLA Health Care Institute—thank you for taking the time to plan and be intentional. Please don’t forget that EASE is still available: be sure to reach out proactively, don’t wait for a crisis.

Looking forward, we also have a CLASS review coming up later this year. It will not be considered for designation renewal, but is still an excellent opportunity to keep strengthening our classroom interactions that change lives forever.