Every child deserves a strong start, and that begins with well-supported educators. We are kicking off the Great Expectations 2026 Communities of Practice, bringing together early childhood educators, caregivers, and community partners from across Southern Arizona to launch another year of learning, collaboration, and connection.
Through Great Expectations, United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona, with funding support from First Things First, provides free professional development designed to help those who care for and educate young children.
Participants have access to:
- No-cost professional development and evidence-based training.
- Opportunities to build meaningful connections with fellow educators and community partners.
- A Communities of Practice model that fosters peer learning, collaboration, and shared problem-solving.
- Practical tools and resources that strengthen classroom practice and support families.
When we invest in the professionals who shape children’s earliest years, we strengthen every child’s opportunity to enter kindergarten ready to thrive.
Are you an early childhood educator, caregiver, or professional who works with young children? Join Great Expectations to access free training, expand your professional network, and discover new ways to support the children and families in your care. Learn more and get involved today.
2026-2027 Communities of Practice
- Building Early childhood Foundations Community of Practice
- Creating Connections Community of Practice
- Empowering Conscious Educators/Empoderando a Educadores Consientes Community of Practice
- Enhancing Early Childhood Executive Function Skills Community of Practice
- Exploring STEAM Through Literacy for Ages Birth to Five Community of Practice
- Access for All
- Las Familias: Whole Teacher, Whole Child Community of Practice
- Project Best Community of Practice
- Nurture Through Nature Community of Practice
- Raising Resilience Community of Practice
- The Story Project: Cuentame, a Spanish Language Community of Practice
- For questions regarding this resource, please contact United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona—Great Expectations.
- Contact Name: Denice Contreras
- Phone No: 520-903-3951
- Email Address: getcfc@unitedwaytucson.org