Join us for the Wisconsin Head Start Association’s 24th Annual Training Conference
Monday – Wednesday, February 23-25, 2026
This three-day event brings together the entire early childhood community—from Head Start and Early Head Start staff to parents, families, and child care providers. Whether you’re a birth-to-three professional, home visitor, ECE student or educator, or work with tribal and migrant programs, you’ll find sessions designed for you. Healthcare and social service partners, state agencies, and CCR&R professionals are also essential voices in this gathering.
Together, we’ll strengthen our shared commitment to Wisconsin’s youngest learners and the families we serve. to your important work feeling inspired and equipped with new tools to serve Wisconsin’s children and families. This conference offers professional development designed specifically for those who believe every child deserves the best possible start in life.
When: Monday – Wednesday, February 23 – 25, 2026
Where: Kalahari Resort & Convention Center, 1305 Kalahari Dr., Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965
Workshops will also cover our core framework areas: Child Development, Family Systems and Dynamics, Diversity, Special Needs and Inclusive Practices, Learning Experiences and Curriculum, Health Safety and Nutrition, Guidance and Nurturing, Observation and Assessment, Family and Community Relationships, Professionalism, Planning and Reflection, and Administration and Management.
Room Block Closes Wednesday, January 21, 2026 Attendees will receive room block information and booking links upon registration.
Registration is now open! Secure your spot for three days of professional development designed specifically for Wisconsin’s Head Start community.
What’s Happening:
- Keynote Speakers: Dr. Alonzo Kelly (Monday, February 23) and Dr. El Brown (Tuesday, February 24)
- Keynote Connection Session: A special 30-minute interactive Q&A opportunity with our keynote speakers
- Workshop Selection Underway: An exciting lineup of professional development sessions is being finalized. The full schedule will be released soon.
Get Involved:
- Exhibitors: Limited booth spaces available in the General Assembly and South Atrium. Exhibition packets available now.
- Sponsors: Sponsorship opportunities will be released shortly, offering multiple levels of visibility and support for Wisconsin’s Head Start professionals.
Call for Speakers: Speaker applications for the 2026 WHSA Conference have closed. Thank you to everyone who applied! The full workshop schedule will be available soon at whsa2026annualconference.sched.com.
Call for Exhibitors and Sponsors: Exhibitor Applications — Open Now (Deadline Monday, December 22, 2025)
Super Early Bird Registration is open!
Contact: For questions, comments or if you would like more information, email whsassist@whsaonline.org
