This past October 19th, hundreds of early learning educators from the Tampa Bay area and from other parts of Florida, gathered at Bishop McLaughlin HS on Hays Road. Since 2008, The Early Learning Coalition of Pasco and Hernando Counties, Inc. has been hosting what is considered one of the largest early learning conferences hosted by a coalition in the state of Florida. In 2019, it marked its 12th Annual Early Learning Conference with its theme: Interactions Matter! Over 700 registrants, 65 presenters for breakout sessions including Keynote speaker Gina Gates from Teachstone plus special awards for Early Learning Teacher of the Year, The Helen and John Long Memorial Scholarship and recognition of Marchman Tech students from New Port Richey who collaborated and designed the conference logo Interactions Matter! The day began at 8:00 am with Open Ceremonies with a warm welcome from Early Learning Coalition of Pasco and Hernando Counties, Inc., Executive Director Steve Knobl Ph.D. with participation from the Early Learning Coalition Board of Directors and Senior Trainer and Conference Chair Dawn Espinoza. The conference included a vendor exhibition featuring a partnership between local businesses and educational and nonprofit organizations that shared resources, services and merchandise was also available for purchase. It was a day that provided new insight for preschool teachers, preschool center directors and owners any one passionate about early childhood education. “We believe that teachers and parents deserve the best training we can offer so children benefit and develop a love for learning in their early years.” Stated Executive Director Steve Knobl Ph.D. On behalf of the Early Learning Coalition of Pasco and Hernando Counties, Inc., we also want to extend our appreciation to all of our sponsors that partnered with the Early Learning Coalition in support of this conference and its educators. Thank you to Suncoast Credit Union, Discount School Supply, Teachstone, Lakeshore Learning, Florida Lottery, Child’s Play, Florida Day Care Insurance, SmartCare, Springfield College of Tampa Bay, Saint Leo University, Germ Masters, Meares Plumbing and Rotary Club of New Port Richey.