Professional Development for Early Childhood Education: A National Perspective

The article introduces the reader to a special issue of NHSA Dialog that focuses on the professional development (PD) of early childhood educators. The article opens with a perspective from a historical lens, namely that of PD in K--12 education and the evolution of Learning Forward, formerly the National Staff Development Council. The recently (2011) revised Standards for Professional Learning are included, leading into more recent developments in early childhood education professional learning. Finally, the article introduces the reader to each research article included in the issue.