Educators, caregivers, professionals statewide invited to 2025 Hawaiʻi Island Early Childhood Conference

Educators, caregivers and early childhood professionals throughout the state can now register to attend the 2025 Hawai‘i Island Early Childhood Conference.

The conference — hosted by Hawaiʻi County Department of Research and Development Early Childhood Resource Program in partnership with Baby STEPS Hawaiʻi and Friends of the Future — is scheduled for Sept. 12-13 at King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island.

Those who plant to attend can register for Friday only, Saturday only or both days.

This year’s theme “Ho‘ohana – Inspiring Educators with Intent and Purpose” focuses on practical tools and thoughtful reflections to support the kindergarten entry assessment domains.

Featured areas of emphasis will include:

• Language and literacy.
• Authentic assessment.
• Outdoor learning.
• Statewide early childhood systems updates.

This year’s conference kicks off Sept. 12 with an evening dinner and pau hana networking event, featuring keynote address by renowned educators Cyndi Willmarth and Paige Brown.

Willmarth has a bachelor of arts in secondary education from the University of Illinois and master of arts in early childhood education. Her work in Colorado, Hawai‘i and Kentucky has included teaching, coaching and workshop facilitation.

Brown has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and an elementary teaching certification. She has dedicated her career to working with Hawai‘i elementary students.

The second day of the conference Sept. 13 offers a full slate of professional development, including three breakout sessions with five workshop options each. These sessions will provide hands-on learning and meaningful dialogue in connection with this year’s focus areas.

Visit the Hawaiʻi County Research and Development website to learn more or register for this year’s conference.