ERSEA Re-Certification and Alumni Cohort Reunion – (Hybrid) (In-Person, Chicago and Virtual)

Join us for the transformative ERSEA Re-Certification event, honoring the 60^th Anniversary of Head Start and over 18 years of dedicated ERSEA cohorts and certification alums on in the vibrant city of Chicago, IL. This gathering is more than an ERSEA re-certification; it’s a chance to enhance your understanding and skills related to federal regulations for Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment, and Attendance (ERSEA) 1302 and Definitions 1305.

In 2025, HGJA forensic consultants formed a coalition to ensure that disadvantaged children and their families have access to quality education. A key part of this initiative is implementing an effective ERSEA strategy guided by data to inform and share data related to supply and retention decisions.

Currently organizations and programs are not effectively addressing ERSEA and staffing challenges, and high turnover rates in teacher-led services remain largely unaddressed, particularly in terms of workplace culture and safety. Moreover, aspiring staff often face uncertainty about competitive salaries unless they are affiliated with specific associations that offer state-funded pay parity. This session will present strategies for a multifaceted ERSEA workforce approach, focusing on service access and seamless entry while highlighting essential success rubric factors.

We recognize that many programs face challenges in achieving meaningful collaboration and setting realistic goals. By identifying the gaps in assessment, training, and implementation, we can turn these challenges into opportunities for transformative change. The Chicago ERSEA Re-Certification training is designed to equip key staff and partners with the critical knowledge and skills needed to spark significant improvements within local Head Start and Early Head Start programs.

Join us as we explore executive orders and Head Start regulations.

At HGJA, we are committed to supporting our ERSEA Re-Certification alums and cohorts by keeping you informed and promoting effective teamwork. We will discuss strategies to enhance access to essential services, with a focus on promoting equity in early childhood education and family support.

 Anticipated Learning Outcomes for the 2025 Chicago ERSEA Recertification and Alumni Cohort Reunion:

1. Review the historical context of ERSEA systems and analyze recent reports from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) regarding potentially fraudulent activities in Head Start programs.
2. Recognize the significance of ERSEA in serving disadvantaged families and understand the effectiveness of advocacy techniques.
3. Discuss practical challenges related to ERSEA implementation.
4. Determine best practices for the effective management of ERSEA across various Head Start programs.
5. Understand the essential ERSEA requirements necessary for accessing services and the relevant compliance standards that must be followed.
6. Explore strategies to promote team collaboration, improve workforce recruitment and retention, and comply with updated executive orders and regulations.
7. Enhance stakeholder training with best practices, manage risks for compliance, and build competencies in ERSEA protocols.
8. Identify risks associated with implementing ERSEA and develop effective risk management strategies to mitigate them.
9. Define the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders involved.
10. Reassess the systems approach to ERSEA management, taking into account the budget implications.
11. Review ERSEA plans and the overall program portfolio.
12. Prepare for the ERSEA Re-Certification Examination.

HGJA sessions aim to empower participants to enhance processes for underserved communities. Led by experienced trainers, the HGJA ERSEA Re-Certification course will clarify the Head Start Act and provide crucial compliance resources. This course will help you navigate the ERSEA framework, ensuring vulnerable children and families can access necessary services.  Join us in inspiring change, advocating for the future of early childhood education, and celebrating the 60th anniversary of Head Start!

 Agenda at a Glance

Day One Schedule

9:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.

• ERSEA System Re-Certification Objectives
• Individual and Organizational Benefits of
• Recertification
• ERSEA Portfolio
• 2025 Critical Issues Impacting Head Start Programs
• Smooth Entry Subscription Services
• Professional Development, Train the Trainer, and
• Training Opportunities

10:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.     Break

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

• Examining State and Federal Trends, Best Practices,
• Requirements, Mandates, Strategies, and Solutions Related to Purpose, Scope, and Systems Definitions/Terms, Service Area, and Community Assessment

12:00 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.       Lunch

1:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

• Exploring Trends, Requirements, Best Practices, and
• Solutions for Determining, Verifying, and Documenting Eligibility

2:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.         Break

2:45 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

• Exploring Trends, Requirements, Best Practices, and Solutions for the Recruitment of Children

3:15 p.m. – 3:30 pm

• ERSEA Alumni Cohort Celebration and 60^th Head Start Anniversary

Q&A, Wrap Up Day One Activities

Day Two Schedule

9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

• Exploring Trends, Requirements, Best Practices, and
• Solutions for the Selection of Children and Families

10:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.     Break

10:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

• Exploring Trends, Requirements, Best Practices, and Solutions for Enrollment, Attendance, Suspension and Expulsion, Policy on Fees, and Compliance

12:00 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.       Lunch

1:15 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

• ERSEA Prep – “Smooth Entry Ice Breaker”

1:45 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.        

• ERSEA Re-Certification Exam

3:15 p.m. – 3:30 pm

• Wrap Up, Evaluation, and Questionnaire

HGJA reserves the right to make changes in the training or cancel a training if enrollment criteria are not met or when conditions beyond its control prevail. Registrants will be contacted in the event of a cancellation. HGJA’s liability will be limited to the refund of the training registration fee only. Cancellations can be made up to ten business days before your scheduled training: your registration fee will be refunded less a $50 fee. No refunds will be made for cancellations made less than ten business days prior to your scheduled Summit; however, you may send a substitute. All cancellation and substitution requests must be received in writing.

*Team Registration

Teams of five or more must register and send payment by the Early Bird Deadline or Regular rates will apply.