DSU’s ECIC joins national conversation at SXSW EDU on early childhood workforce

Delaware State University’s Early Childhood Innovation Center (ECIC) recently took part in a national conversation on strengthening the early childhood workforce during SXSW EDU 2026, a global conference that brings together educators, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore the future of education, held March 9-12 in Austin, Texas.

Their session, “Insisting on Success: Systems That Support and Sustain the Early Childhood Workforce,” focused on how intentional workforce systems can move educators beyond access and toward persistence, completion and long-term career advancement.

Moderated by Jackie Mader, senior reporter at The Hechinger Report, the panel featured Dr. Kimberly Krzanowski, executive director of the ECIC; Phyllis Roland, Child Development Associate Coach at the ECIC; and Jazzie Tribbett, an early childhood educator and ECIC CDA scholar.

The discussion highlighted how the ECIC’s workforce model is reshaping early childhood workforce development through coordinated systems of support, including credential pathways, coaching, financial assistance and career navigation.

“The panel offered an excellent opportunity to share how the ECIC is changing the landscape in supporting early childhood educators achieving career advancement,” said Dr. Krzanowski. “Being unapologetic in our approach to design and deliver holistic, intentional, relationship-based coaching has proven to be at the center of our success model. It was an honor to share the stage with the people who are doing this amazing work every day.”

Throughout the session, speakers emphasized that access alone is not enough to ensure success.

“What makes the ECIC special is that our work is grounded in relationships,” Roland said. “We listen, we understand, and we build systems that respond to real needs. Access to resources is important, but it is the coordination of those resources within a comprehensive system of support that leads to successful outcomes.”

Roland’s remarks underscored a broader shift in workforce development, highlighting the importance of sustained, people-centered support systems that guide educators throughout their careers.

That impact was further reflected in the experience of ECIC scholar Jazzie Tribbett.

“For anyone considering going back to school, go for it. Do not be afraid,” Tribbett said. “Build a community that supports you and speak up when you need help. The ECIC reminds you that you are never alone. This experience gave me the confidence to continue my journey, and I will be applying for my associate degree.”

The session concluded with a call to action for states and institutions nationwide to invest in intentional systems that support educators at every stage.

Through its presence at SXSW EDU, the ECIC shared Delaware’s emerging model and reinforced the importance of building systems that empower educators, strengthen classrooms and improve outcomes for children and families.