Early Learning Events in Illinois

2026 Illinois State Board of Education Prevention Initiative Forum

Event Type

Conference/Workshop

Sponsor

Start Early

Location

Champaign, IL

Date

Apr 14, 2026 - Apr 15, 2026 All Day

Registration

Registration

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The Illinois State Board of Education Prevention Initiative Forum will be held in person from April 14-15, 2026.

Intended Audience: Illinois State Board of Education Prevention Initiative Supervisors & Administrators

Objectives:

Build Connections: Foster meaningful relationships among supervisors and administrators of Prevention Initiative Programs to strengthen collaboration and enhance statewide support networks.
Strengthen Systems: Provide participants with tools, strategies, and resources to improve program infrastructure, enhance service delivery, and promote model fidelity across PI programs.
Enhance Leadership: Offer professional development opportunities focused on leadership growth to empower program leaders in driving sustainable success.
Encourage Innovation: Inspire attendees to explore creative solutions and best practices to address challenges and adapt to the evolving needs of the children and families they serve.

Location

I Hotel & Illinois Conference Center - 1900 S 1st St, Champaign, IL 61820

Agenda
The in-person Forum will include the following engagements: 

Tuesday, April 14: Prevention Initiative Celebration: Network Reception (4:00-6:00pm)
Wednesday, April 15: General/Plenary Sessions and Breakout Sessions

For further details, please view the agenda at a glance.

Meeting Agenda

Stay tuned to learn more about the forum agenda, including session titles and speakers.

Session Registration

Attendees will be able to sign up for breakout sessions using the conference app/website. This information will be released in March.

Mobile App & Forum Updates

Registered attendees will receive all event-related information, including session materials, via the forum’s mobile app and conference website. Registrants will receive email notifications before the forum.

Cancellation Policy

Registrants can cancel anytime by emailing PLNsupport@startearly.org.

Substitution Policy

You may transfer your registration to another person if you cannot attend the forum. Email the event team at PLNsupport@startearly.org with the names and email addresses of the original and substitute registrants. Please include the title, role, and organization of the new attendee.

The Illinois State Board of Education Prevention Initiative Forum will involve a mix of activities requiring moderate mobility. Participants can expect to alternate between standing and sitting throughout the event.

Standing: During registration and networking/resource table sessions, attendees may spend time on their feet engaging with others.
Presenters and facilitators may also stand while delivering sessions or interacting with the audience.
Sitting: Plenary sessions, concurrent workshops, and meals will provide opportunities to sit and listen or participate in discussions.

We recommend wearing comfortable shoes, layers, and attire suitable for transitioning between standing and sitting, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience.

Accessibility - Creating an Inclusive Community: Start Early is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all participants. As you register for the forum, you must agree to the Community Agreement. The Community Agreement outlines the code of conduct for all participants. Please review the list of protocols below. Requests can be made when you register or by emailing PLNsupport@startearly.org.  

Handicap-accessible meeting locations
Designated nursing and medical necessities space 
Contributing to a fragrance-free event: Scents and chemical products may exacerbate the symptoms of a person’s medical condition; please refrain from wearing colognes, perfumes or other scented or chemical products to the event (including attire exposed to smoke) 
Inclusive meal selections to accommodate dietary needs. 
Support for requests for reasonable accommodations, including ASL, will be assessed during the registration process.

Health & Safety
The health and safety of our attendees is a top priority. Please review these details to ensure a safe and positive experience for all in attendance. 

The health and safety of all attendees at the Illinois State Board of Education Prevention Initiative Forum is our top priority. We are committed to creating a safe and positive experience for everyone.

Masks are welcome but not required.
Respect others' comfort levels by asking their preference regarding physical distancing.
Hand sanitation stations will be readily available, and regular handwashing is encouraged.
If you are feeling unwell or have experienced symptoms of illness within 14 days of the event, please refrain from attending.

We will follow all applicable federal, state, and local health guidelines, and updates will be communicated as necessary. Thank you for helping us ensure a safe and successful event for all!

Meals 
On Wednesday, April 15, a continental breakfast and buffet lunch will be provided. When you register, please inform us of your allergies and dietary needs/preferences. 

Start Early has organized room blocks at several local hotels to accommodate your overnight stay. We request meeting participants use the booking links and instructions below to secure accommodations at the group rate. Please note that additional rooms will not be available once our contracted room blocks are sold out.

Booking Deadline: March 13, 2026

I Hotel & Illinois Conference Center

1900 S 1st St, Champaign, IL 61820

Booking Link - I Hotel $159 per night

Group Code: CAFSE26

Guest Password: YX6k&

Homewood Suites

1417 S. Neil St., Champaign, IL 61820

Booking Link - Homewood Suites $155 per night

Hilton Garden Inn

1501 S Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820

(217) 352-9970

Booking Link - Hilton Garden Inn $155 per night