Theory of Change

GOAL:  Early childhood leaders effect change in state and local level systems, policies, legislation, and practice.

NEED:  Maryland needs a pathway for prepared, experienced, and diverse early care and education leaders to address disparities and improve outcomes for all children

SOLUTION: Build capacity and leadership skills through a post – baccalaureate certificate program that includes graduate-level courses.  Support participants along their leadership pathways by offering: a vibrant Community of Practice, ongoing learning opportunities, robust leadership coaching services with certified coaches, and experiences to enhance and practice skills.

OUTCOME:  A network of ECE leaders representing diverse backgrounds, regions, and sectors recognized for having knowledge and skill sets to lead innovative change across early childhood systems and programs in Maryland and in the United States.

Group of people in an audience, one has a microphone and is speaking in it to the presenter
Paul Woody Photography

Maryland needs a pathway for prepared, experienced and diverse early care and education leaders to address disparities and improve outcomes for all children.

  • Professionals in ECE related fields who seek to influence positive change and improved outcomes for Maryland’s young children and their families.
  • Individuals with racial, linguistic, gender, geographic and affiliation diversity in a variety of roles who have a bachelor’s degree or higher and are at a mid-career point.
  • Build capacity and leadership skills through a post – baccalaureate certificate program that includes graduate-level courses.
  • Support MECLP participants as they continue along their leadership pathways with a vibrant Community of Practice, ongoing learning opportunities, robust leadership coaching services with certified coaches, and opportunities to enhance and practice skills.
  • Success in identifying, recruiting, and retaining a diverse, talented, and highly motivated cohort.
  • Gains in fellows’ understanding of leadership competencies.
  • Positive evaluations of program quality by cohort fellows.
  • Career advancement among cohort members.
  • Supervisors recognize growth among fellows.
  • Cohort fellows form positive relationships and expanded professional networks.
  • Evidence of applied learning in fellows’ writing, presentations, and evaluative materials.
  • MECLP and cohort fellows influence improved outcomes for Maryland children, families, and communities, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.
  • Cross-sector ECE leadership will effect change in state and local systems, policies, legislation, and practice.
  • Increased diversity among ECE leaders in Maryland.
  • Creation of and support for a network of ECE leaders across Maryland
  • Cohort fellows are recognized as ECE professionals and leaders who are building local capacity.
  • Growth of personal leadership for ECE professionals across Maryland.