🌟 Calling all Head Start and Early Head Start Leaders in Illinois! 🌟
If you're a Head Start or Early Head Start director in Illinois, this event is for you.
The 2026 Directors Institute is your chance to step away from the day-to-day and connect with people who get what you're navigating—because they’re in it too. Executive directors, program directors, and leadership teams from across the state come together to learn, share, and grow as a community.
We know the landscape is shifting. With evolving guidance from the Administration for Children and Families and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, directors are being asked to do more, respond faster, and lead with greater clarity. This Institute is designed to help you do just that.
Why attend?
You’ll get updates that matter, straight from experts who understand the latest from ACF and HHS—and how it affects your work.
You’ll leave with real tools and strategies, not just big ideas. Everything is tailored for the realities of running a Head Start or Early Head Start program in Illinois.
You’ll connect with your people. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or stepping into the role, this is a place to swap ideas, solve problems, and build relationships that last.
Come ready to talk honestly, think creatively, and walk away with ideas you can actually use. The 2026 Directors Institute is more than a training—it’s a leadership recharge.
SPACE LIMITED - REGISTER FOR YOU SPOT EARLY!
Schedule
Wednesday, June 3: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Lunch provided)
Thursday, June 4: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Breakfast and Lunch provided)
Friday, June 5: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Breakfast provided)
Registration Rates
Registration Type Rate Availability
Individual IHSA Member $399 All registration
Team (3+ from same agency) $349 Through May 1
Non-Member $575 All registration
Team Registration Details
• Team rates are available for groups of three (3) or more attendees from the same member agency or program.
• All team members must register together in one transaction.
• Team pricing is available through May 1, 2026. After that date, all registrations default to the individual member rate of $399.
• If only one person registers at the team rate, IHSA will contact that individual for the $50 balance. Venue & Hotel
Herrington Inn and Spa Guest Room Rate for IHSA Directors Institute: [Individuals must reserve on their own}
The Herrington Inn & Spa, 15 South River Lane, Geneva, IL 60134
Occupancy tax: 11% added to room rate
To book: Call the front desk at 630.208.7433 and ask for the Illinois Head Start / Directors Institute block.
Hotel cutoff: May 4, 2026. Rooms after this date are subject to availability and may not be at the group rate.
Check-in: 4:00 PM | Check-out: 12:00 PM (noon)
Room options:
Courtyard Double or King: 209.00/night
One Bedroom Suite: 259.00/night
River Premier: 259.00/night
Townview Room: 209.00/night
Please reserve your lodging early: Accommodations are subject to availability. Any additions in excess of the Guaranteed Block after the Cut-off Date (May 4, 2026) will increase the Guaranteed Block by an equal amount.
Make your reservation by calling the front desk directly at 630.208.7433 and use your company and group name [IHSA Directors Institute].
