Training

Training

Organizations are only as good as the professionals who work for them. Even in highly committed learning organizations, keeping up with the pace of new information is a challenge. HGJA makes that job easier – and our clients more effective.

We specialize in hands-on training that produces results. From national, stand-alone events for individuals to turnkey, tailored programs for organizations, our priority is to deliver a unique experience that not only opens minds but puts them to work in new ways. Customized educational events can also be combined with consultation services for greater organizational impact.

Customer-designed solutions to suit unique needs can be delivered virtually to ensure the greatest number of staff, partners, and stakeholders can participate. Public seminars are also offered and designed to build skills and offer networking opportunities.

2026 In-Person, Partnership & Virtual Training Calendar

  • ERSEA Re-Certification: Building on Established Foundations - (Hybrid) (In-Person, Chicago IL and Virtual)
    • Day 1
       September 15, 2026
       9:30 am - 3:30 pm
    • Day 2
       September 16, 2026
       9:30 am - 3:30 pm

    This session will strengthen participants' knowledge and skills for meeting the requirements outlined in Part 1302 of the federal regulations regarding Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment, and Attendance (ERSEA). Participants will explore new ideas, strategies, solutions, and best practices for successfully leading, managing, and implementing ERSEA processes. Ultimately, the session will assist programs to understand better that ERSEA means access to services, not service delivery.

  • ERSEA CERTIFICATION FALL COURSE - (Hybrid) (In Person, Chicago IL or Virtual)
    • Day One - ERSEA Level One
       September 22, 2026
       9:30 am - 3:30 pm
    • Day Two - ERSEA Level One
       September 23, 2026
       9:30 am - 3:30 pm
    • Day One - ERSEA Level Two
       October 27, 2026
       9:30 am - 3:30 pm
    • Day Two - ERSEA Level Two
       October 28, 2026
       9:30 am - 3:30 pm
    • Day One - ERSEA Level Three
       November 12, 2026
       9:30 am - 3:30 pm

    The ERSEA Competency Based Certification is designed to help Head Start staff and agency/program teams build critical competencies for assessing Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment, and Attendance (ERSEA) systems, community strengths and needs, determining children and families eligibility status, identifying program recruitment goals and targets, developing a process for selecting children with the greatest need for services, meeting and maintaining full enrollment, and developing attendance policies and procedures that supports families.

  • Community Assessment Training: Setting a Foundation for Program Planning (Hybrid) (In Person, Chicago, IL and Virtual)
    • Community Assessment Training - Day 1
       October 13, 2026
       9:30 am - 3:00 pm
    • Community Assessment Training - Day 2
       October 14, 2026
       9:30 am - 3:00 pm

    The community assessment provides a foundation for all of a program’s planning. Key management team members must have knowledge and skills that encompass the specific regulatory requirements, process management, systemic techniques, and data-gathering strategies, plus the necessary skills to analyze and adequately utilize the assessment information for grant development and program planning. In this session, the HGJA team will outline the steps that will assist your program to produce a community assessment of value to your program and community.

  • TXHSA Inaugural Albert Black Head Start Leadership Institute (Austin, TX)
    • Leadership Conference - Day 1
       November 17, 2026
       9:00 am - 4:00 pm
    • Leadership Conference - Day 2
       November 18, 2026
       9:00 am - 4:00 pm

    Created for executives, directors, coordinators, managers, leaders, and specialists, this immersive institute/conference invites participants to unleash their leadership potential, deepen strategic influence, and boldly shape the future of Head Start in the spirit of Albert Black’s enduring legacy.