PROVEN LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT. LASTING IMPACT.
Empowering Early Childhood Leaders
The Serving Leader Initiative (SLI) grew out of decades of experience walking alongside early childhood leaders. We’ve seen firsthand how hard it is to balance daily demands with the desire to lead well and care deeply for children, families, and staff.
That’s why we created SLI: to give directors, teachers, and program leaders practical, proven tools—not just more theory—to strengthen teams, reduce stress, and create thriving programs.
In partnership with Dr. John Stahl-Wert and World Serving Leaders, we bring the internationally recognized Serving Leader model into early childhood education, adapting world-class leadership practices into strategies you can use right away.
Our mission is simple: equip leaders who serve others first so they can build stronger programs, stronger communities, and a stronger future for children.
WHO WE SERVE
👩🏫 Program Types
- 🏫 Child Care Centers
- 🏠 Family Child Care Programs
- 🏛 Public Preschool Programs
- 🌱 Early Head Start & Head Start Programs
- ✝️ Faith-Based Programs
- 🔗 Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies
👥 Professional Roles
- 🎯 Directors & Assistant Directors
- 📋 Program Managers
- 👩👩👦 Teachers & Teaching Teams
- 🤝 Mentors & Coaches
- 🧩 Specialists & Support Staff
Why learn with us
Practical Tools, Real Impact
Leaders don’t need more theory — they need strategies they can use right away. Our training focuses on practical tools that make an immediate difference in your program.
World-Class Training, Accessible to You
Through our partnership with World Serving Leaders, you gain access to world-class leadership practices adapted for early childhood — all at an affordable price.
Coaching That Meets You Where You Are
Every program and leader is unique. Our facilitation calls are designed to listen, support, and coach you through your real challenges so you can grow with confidence.
Build Stronger Teams, Reduce Stress
High turnover, stretched staff, and burnout are real. We help you strengthen team culture and create a positive environment where both educators and children thrive.
Community of Encouragement
When leaders come together, amazing things happen. Our cohorts give you a community of peers who understand the unique challenges of early childhood education. In this space, you’ll find encouragement when things feel overwhelming, fresh ideas when you need inspiration, and honest conversation without judgment. This community of support helps every leader — and every program — grow stronger.
Leadership That Lifts You and Others
Compassion fatigue is real. Caring deeply for staff, children, and families often leaves leaders running on empty. Our programs help refill your cup so you can continue to lead with energy and vision.
At the same time, leadership isn’t only about recovery. If you’re feeling confident and thriving, this is also the space to keep building. Our training challenges you to deepen your skills, expand your influence, and strengthen the impact you’re already making.
Whether you need renewal or are ready to take your leadership to the next level, the Serving Leader Initiative provides the tools, coaching, and community to help you grow — and to lift up those you lead.
COURSE INTRO
Leadership as Practice: Unlock your potential as a Serving Leader
Leadership is both an art and a discipline. In this course we’ll guide you through proven practices from the Serving Leader model, giving you practical tools to inspire your team, strengthen your program, and create lasting impact for children and families.
Stay Connected, Stay Inspired
Sign up for our monthly newsletter with leadership tips you can use right away. You’ll also get updates about upcoming courses and opportunities to grow with SLI.
Thank you for subscribing!
Have a great day!
