Quality Enrichment Circles (QECs) are IHSA's peer learning groups for Head Start and Early Head Start professionals in Illinois. Now in their 19th year, QECs bring together small groups of staff who share a role to work through real challenges, share what is working, and grow alongside colleagues who understand their day-to-day work. Sessions are participant-driven: you help set the agenda, and you leave with ideas you can use.

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What happens in QECs?
Each QEC meets weekly and is led by a Content Area Expert (CAE)—a peer who knows the work and understands the challenges. Sessions include sharing insights, solving real problems, and learning from each other. Guest speakers will join throughout the year to bring in fresh knowledge and perspective.

Where are QECs held?
All QECs are fully virtual for 2026 – 2027. No travel or substitute coverage is required. Each session includes breakout discussions by region to maintain local relevance. Dates vary based on the Content Area.  Please see IHSA Event Calendar for QEC Content Area specific dates.

When do QECs happen?
Each content area meets on a rotating schedule. For specific dates, see the Content Area QEC Dates & Registration Information section or visit www.ilheadstart.org.

What are the different QECs or Content Areas for 2026-2027?
There are six (6) QECs this year, covering a wide range of roles and specialties:

1. Education, Disabilities, & Coaching
2. Early Head Start & Home Visiting
3. Family Services & ERSEA
4. Health, Safety, & Nutrition
5. Mental Health, Wellness, & SEL
6. Family Service Workers, Specialists, & Advocates

How does registration work?
This year, IHSA is offering a subscription-based model:

• One subscription covers unlimited access to all six QEC groups for the full year per person
• Attend each QEC or jump in when a content area or topic fits your needs
• You can stay with one circle or move between groups as needed—it's your call
• Each registration is tied to one named registered participant. Session links are not transferable. If your program would like to add participants, additional registrations are available at the group rate.

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Each QEC supports professionals working in a specific content area. Whether you’re new to the role or experienced, these sessions provide space to connect with peers, share insights, and address real challenges in your daily work.

Early Head Start/Home Visiting
For professionals supporting Early Head Start and home-based programs, including center-based services. Focuses on relationship-based practices, family engagement, and strategies that support infants, toddlers, and pregnant people.

Education, Disabilities, & Coaching 
Designed for educators, coaches, and coordinators in HS/EHS. Covers classroom strategies, inclusive practices, and coaching techniques that support teacher growth and child outcomes.

Family Services & ERSEA 
For staff managing family services and ERSEA (Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment, and Attendance). Sessions focus on outreach strategies, recruitment challenges, and family engagement systems.

Family Service Workers, Specialists, & Advocates 
Frontline-focused group for those directly supporting families. Emphasizes relationship-building, goal setting, connecting families to resources, and navigating common service delivery barriers.

Health, Safety & Nutrition 
For those responsible for health services, safe environments, and child nutrition. Discussions include safety compliance, meal planning, health promotion, and real-world challenges.

Mental Health, Wellness & SEL 
For staff addressing mental health, wellness, and social-emotional development in HS/EHS programs. Offers practical tools, peer support, and systems thinking for child, family, and staff well-being.

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Each participant must register individually. One registration fee per person covers that participant's full year of QEC access across all six content areas. No session-by-session sign-up required.

If registering a group of five or more from the same program, select the Group Registration package to receive the discounted rate.

Per Person Registration Fee Includes: 

• Access to all six QEC content areas
• Weekly virtual sessions from October through April
• Regional breakout discussions within each session
• Peer-led facilitation by Content Area Experts (CAEs)
• Guest speakers and topic-specific presentations
• Shared resources and a dedicated listserv
• Flexibility to attend sessions that fit your role, interest, or schedule

Inidividual Member Subscription Pass:  $310.00 
Five or more registrations from the same Agency: $275.00
Non Member Fee: $429.00
 

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Thank you for registering for an IHSA Professional Development event. Your registration allows us to deliver the highest-quality speakers, materials, and logistics.

Registration Policy: Once you submit your registration, your spot is guaranteed—there are no cancellations, refunds, or credits.. Registrations are used for planning purposes, including materials, meals, and room setup. However, your agency may make name changes and/or substitute another attendee—simply send us the replacement’s name and contact information at least 72 hours before the event.

Virtual Events: Session access details will be emailed to you separately prior to the event.

In Person Events: Travel and accommodations are not included in your registration fee. If a room block has been arranged, booking instructions and deadlines will be included in your confirmation email. Otherwise, please make lodging arrangements that fit your needs and review any hotel cancellation policies before booking.

Contingency Plan: If public health conditions require a change in format, in-person events will transition to virtual. You will be notified promptly if this occurs.