"Children as Researchers: Reading to Learn Can Start Early" is the fourth in a series of five Professional Development for All events in 2017-18 for those who work with young children in the Learning Community of Douglas and Sarpy Counties. The keynote speaker for the March institute is Susan Bennett Armistead, an associate professor of early literacy at the University of Maine. Other speakers include Mary Carey, a birth to third grade facilitator with the Rollins Center for Language & Literacy in Atlanta; Julie Humphrey, youth and family services manager at the Omaha Public Library; Hannah Schneewind, a certified reading specialist and literacy consultant in New York; and Janette Merkel, program specialist for professional learning at the Buffett Institute.

The 2017-18 series, entitled "Content-Rich Learning for Young Children, Birth – Grade 3," explores new research-based ideas about children's learning in the content areas. The focus is on educational practices that engage young children in developmentally appropriate and rigorous active learning. This will be accompanied by strategies for engaging families in content-rich learning adventures as they play and learn together. Offered as part of the Superintendents' Plan. Breakout sessions will be differentiated to address the diverse needs of the participants, including those who work with infants and toddlers, preschoolers, early primary-age children, and families. Offered as part of the Superintendents' Plan. Participants can attend on Thursday, March 1, or Saturday, March 3.