About the 40th Annual Early Childhood Winter Conference
Join us for a milestone celebration of early childhood education at one of Texas' premier professional development events! This year's event theme is:
Hands-On, Minds-On:
S.T.E.A.M. in Early Learning
This year's conference will spotlight innovation, inclusion and inspiration for pre-K3 through second-grade educators. We're bringing together a dynamic gathering filled with powerful insights, meaningful connections and extraordinary learning opportunities. This celebration will elevate your practice and ignite your passion for education!
Don't Miss ECWC 2026—Secure Your Spot Today!
Countdown to ECWC 2026
- DAYS
- HR
- MIN
- SEC
ECWC 2026 Registration Rates
| Registration Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Individual Educator | $100 |
| Group (20+ attendees) | $90 per person |
| Students (Higher education with valid ID) | $50 |
| Presenter (2 or more sessions) | Complimentary |
| Price at the Door | $125 per person |
ECWC Keynote Speaker
![Gerry Brooks]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1767827823/hcdetexasorg/ldmiukiudibjhbwdr1re/gerry-brooks.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1767827823/hcdetexasorg/ldmiukiudibjhbwdr1re/gerry-brooks.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1767827823/hcdetexasorg/ldmiukiudibjhbwdr1re/gerry-brooks.jpg","width":612}])
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Author, Principal, Dad, Fun Maker, Education Influencer
Early Childhood Winter Conference
DATE:
Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026TIME:
Doors open at 7 a.m.
Conference Kick-Off 8 a.m.
LOCATION:
Kingdom Builders' Center6011 W. Orem Drive
Houston, Texas 77085
(View Map)
Featured Speakers
![Culinary Kellie]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768227873/hcdetexasorg/r8hdf6b9eplwejxiamkq/KKaraviasheadshot1_1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1768227873/hcdetexasorg/r8hdf6b9eplwejxiamkq/KKaraviasheadshot1_1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768227873/hcdetexasorg/r8hdf6b9eplwejxiamkq/KKaraviasheadshot1_1.jpg","width":800}])
Founder of Cultivated Classroom
![Dr. Gilberto D. Soto]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768229235/hcdetexasorg/bl3gtkhiyoybhcsjqcyg/DrGilbertoDSoto1_2.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1768229235/hcdetexasorg/bl3gtkhiyoybhcsjqcyg/DrGilbertoDSoto1_2.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768229235/hcdetexasorg/bl3gtkhiyoybhcsjqcyg/DrGilbertoDSoto1_2.jpg","width":800}])
Professor of Music Education/Guitar at Texas A&M International University
![Kindall Tyson]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768229175/hcdetexasorg/uj67jvrjwmsxwcdevnxx/Kindalltysonheadshot1_1.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1768229175/hcdetexasorg/uj67jvrjwmsxwcdevnxx/Kindalltysonheadshot1_1.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768229175/hcdetexasorg/uj67jvrjwmsxwcdevnxx/Kindalltysonheadshot1_1.png","width":800}])
Owner, Aspire Counseling & Wellness Center, PLLC
![Maria Mercedes Champion]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768229199/hcdetexasorg/wbnf9xspbb5gq6z87vvw/MercedesChampion_1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1768229199/hcdetexasorg/wbnf9xspbb5gq6z87vvw/MercedesChampion_1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768229199/hcdetexasorg/wbnf9xspbb5gq6z87vvw/MercedesChampion_1.jpg","width":800}])
Educational Consulting
![Saul Paul]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768229129/hcdetexasorg/m5mscqrzrllsxeb7uygp/SaulPaulGuitarHeadshot1_1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1768229129/hcdetexasorg/m5mscqrzrllsxeb7uygp/SaulPaulGuitarHeadshot1_1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768229129/hcdetexasorg/m5mscqrzrllsxeb7uygp/SaulPaulGuitarHeadshot1_1.jpg","width":800}])
Artist
Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities Available!
Be part of the movement shaping the future of early learning. Connect with over 1,000 passionate professionals and showcase your commitment to equity-driven education for our youngest learners.
Contact Us
Center for Educator Success
Harris County Department of Education
6300 Irvington Blvd.
Houston, TX 77022
Email: ces@hcde-texas.org
Phone: 713-696-8223
Last Call for Submissions & Special Hotel Rates!
Creation Station Challenge
![ECWC 2026 conference competition]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1764975143/hcdetexasorg/ltejlckcxzuucjfdkv8u/creation-station-ecwc-2026.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1764975143/hcdetexasorg/ltejlckcxzuucjfdkv8u/creation-station-ecwc-2026.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1764975143/hcdetexasorg/ltejlckcxzuucjfdkv8u/creation-station-ecwc-2026.jpg","width":552}])
Turn your best center or station into a $500 scholarship
Stay in Houston
Enjoy exclusive conference rates and amenities when you book your room for the 2026 Early Childhood Winter Conference.
Join Us for Insights from Thought Leaders in Early Childhood Education
Join us in the Leadership Track at the upcoming Early Childhood Winter Conference!
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain exclusive access to our dynamic Leadership Panel, where top leaders will share invaluable strategies, inspiring stories and insights tailored for early childhood professionals. We will be highlighting a panelist and their area of expertise, giving you a sneak peek into the wealth of knowledge they will bring to the conference.
By registering for the Leadership Track, you’ll also enjoy access to additional special sessions designed specifically for Leadership Track participants. Secure your spot today and be part of an enriching experience that will empower you and elevate your leadership journey!
Leadership Panelists
![Dr. Amber Brown]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1767824824/hcdetexasorg/kzpzc08abhyqycptq3ym/amber-brown.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1767824824/hcdetexasorg/kzpzc08abhyqycptq3ym/amber-brown.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1767824824/hcdetexasorg/kzpzc08abhyqycptq3ym/amber-brown.jpg","width":612}])
Program Director and Professor of Early Childhood Education, University of Houston–Clear Lake
![Dr. Francisco (Paco) Usero Gonzalez]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1767824106/hcdetexasorg/cptyljpgp8jyvkomgjd5/francisco-gonzalez.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1767824106/hcdetexasorg/cptyljpgp8jyvkomgjd5/francisco-gonzalez.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1767824106/hcdetexasorg/cptyljpgp8jyvkomgjd5/francisco-gonzalez.jpg","width":612}])
Assistant Professor of School of Teaching and Learning, Department of Teaching & Learning, Sam Houston State University
![Marisol Castruita]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1767824015/hcdetexasorg/xiqxqzro2ivhvxfs7irj/Marisol-Castruita.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1767824015/hcdetexasorg/xiqxqzro2ivhvxfs7irj/Marisol-Castruita.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1767824015/hcdetexasorg/xiqxqzro2ivhvxfs7irj/Marisol-Castruita.jpg","width":612}])
Executive Director, EC, HISD
![Ray Mondragón]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1767824207/hcdetexasorg/enioqtj178tegbup10pt/ray-mondragon.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1767824207/hcdetexasorg/enioqtj178tegbup10pt/ray-mondragon.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1767824207/hcdetexasorg/enioqtj178tegbup10pt/ray-mondragon.jpg","width":612}])
School Assistant Superintendent - Primary Schools, Aldine ISD
![Venetia L. Peacock]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1767824947/hcdetexasorg/mfpyrcbw8bknofghqygt/Venetia-Peacock-1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1767824947/hcdetexasorg/mfpyrcbw8bknofghqygt/Venetia-Peacock-1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1767824947/hcdetexasorg/mfpyrcbw8bknofghqygt/Venetia-Peacock-1.jpg","width":612}])
Senior Director Of Head Start, HCDE
Flashback: Relive ECWC 2025!
Thank You, ECWC Sponsors!
Platinum
![The Pencil Grip]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768191442/hcdetexasorg/tmopin0xlxdhmnare9sf/tpg-creations.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768191442/hcdetexasorg/tmopin0xlxdhmnare9sf/tpg-creations.jpg","width":400}])
The Pencil Grip
![Children's Museum of Houston]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768191341/hcdetexasorg/fffvkuen7eb6osw62mlk/childrens-museum.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768191341/hcdetexasorg/fffvkuen7eb6osw62mlk/childrens-museum.jpg","width":400}])
Children's Museum of Houston
![LA Fitness]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768191243/hcdetexasorg/ucc8osmn1cdsv3nyb6ey/LA-Fitness.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768191243/hcdetexasorg/ucc8osmn1cdsv3nyb6ey/LA-Fitness.jpg","width":400}])
LA Fitness
![The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768191033/hcdetexasorg/tgierchib5jsnizw1ba2/mfah.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768191033/hcdetexasorg/tgierchib5jsnizw1ba2/mfah.jpg","width":400}])
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Gold
![Sphero]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1767833731/hcdetexasorg/ualzgl2k6dyeaxhwij8g/sphero.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1767833731/hcdetexasorg/ualzgl2k6dyeaxhwij8g/sphero.jpg","width":400}])
Sphero
![Teaching Strategies]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1767833492/hcdetexasorg/euezitzuwgw12wgjsues/teaching-strategies.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1767833492/hcdetexasorg/euezitzuwgw12wgjsues/teaching-strategies.jpg","width":400}])
Teaching Strategies
Silver
![Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768192098/hcdetexasorg/gapilztxm8bem4mzpukq/GCEFCU.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768192098/hcdetexasorg/gapilztxm8bem4mzpukq/GCEFCU.jpg","width":400}])
Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union
![Durotech Foundation]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768191987/hcdetexasorg/felm1d6mzdmfj8temtj8/durotech.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768191987/hcdetexasorg/felm1d6mzdmfj8temtj8/durotech.jpg","width":400}])
Durotech Foundation
Bronze
![Celebrate Successful Early Learning]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768193071/hcdetexasorg/c6vejv0wwxuncrjwzoua/celebrate-learning.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768193071/hcdetexasorg/c6vejv0wwxuncrjwzoua/celebrate-learning.jpg","width":400}])
Celebrate Successful Early Learning
![Really Rex Boutique]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768192934/hcdetexasorg/bluaxy70y2lebekkkgjv/Really-Rex.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768192934/hcdetexasorg/bluaxy70y2lebekkkgjv/Really-Rex.jpg","width":400}])
Really Rex Boutique
![Positive Behavior Supports Corp.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768192810/hcdetexasorg/t0iwocudjjoakouhmyah/pbs-corp.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768192810/hcdetexasorg/t0iwocudjjoakouhmyah/pbs-corp.jpg","width":400}])
Positive Behavior Supports Corp.
Friend of ECWC
![Heinemann Publishing]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768193285/hcdetexasorg/g4o5yrh74lx6stxmflnv/Heinemann.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768193285/hcdetexasorg/g4o5yrh74lx6stxmflnv/Heinemann.jpg","width":400}])
Heinemann Publishing
Heinemann Publishing
![Sam Houston State University]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768193202/hcdetexasorg/mzh7rihtjojicsn4amdz/shsu.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1768193202/hcdetexasorg/mzh7rihtjojicsn4amdz/shsu.jpg","width":400}])
Sam Houston State University
Sam Houston State University