A sample schedule from the 2023 PDI can be found below.

We also provide suggested learning tracks so participants can easily plan for a focused day of learning. Click here to view the 2023 learning tracks.

The newest PDI signature event is a panel conversation, which includes a facilitated Q & A with experts on topics related to early childhood, and hands-on activities for individual participants and small groups. On the afternoon of July 14th, 2023 we kicked off the PDI with this year's 3-hour panel event, Be Prepared: Planning for and Responding to the Unexpected.  This conversation focused on the fields of mental health and emergency preparedness in early childhood. Participants learned effective emergency preparedness strategies, including considerations for trauma-informed practice, and made individual emergency action plans, while networking with peers from across Southeast Louisiana.

Thank you to Assistant Professor at Tulane University School of Medicine Dr. Kassia Plessy, Institute for Childhood Preparedness CEO Andrew Roszak, Owner and Director of Four Stars Childcare Amie Knupple, Delgado Community College Professor Lisa Melson, and Early Care & Education Specialist & Region 4 Coordinator Dianna Constant for leading this important and valuable discussion.

At the 2023 PDI we welcomed 20 educators to a 6-hour New Teacher Orientation workshop. These participants learned assessment tools and effective teaching strategies, designed a classroom, and enjoyed hands-on activities designed to help them understand what a high-quality classroom should look like. They will be invited to continue their learning journey throughout the year in a virtual cohort that provides ongoing support from Agenda for Children staff.

The PDI was held at the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, located at 3939 Gentilly Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70126.

We appreciate the support of their campus staff and look forward to using this beautiful facility again for future professional development events.

We look forward to an exciting year of professional development. Please visit our Workshop Registration page to learn about upcoming opportunities. See you at the next PDI!