The Science of Improvement Meets the Art of Teaching: Building a Data-Driven CQI Cycle (2.0 CEs)

Overview

CQI is more than a method—it’s a mindset rooted in equity, data, and collaboration. Meaningful data use, inclusive co-design with communities, and structured tools drive sustainable change. This hands-on workshop is designed to help attendees transform how they collect, interpret, and act on data in early childhood programs. Backward design models promote intentional data equity ensuring that the right data are collected to reflect real outcomes for historically marginalized populations (Derrick-Mills et al., 2021). By using a backward design model, participants will learn to connect goals with measurable change strategies and co-design solutions with community voice. The Urban Institute (2021) found that high-performing Head Start programs used qualitative and quantitative data to reflect on equity gaps, adapt strategies, and monitor progress. This session will draw on frameworks that emphasize how a mixed methods approach quantitative and qualitative can lead to equitable, evidence-informed action. By aligning with foundational CQI practices, performance metrics, and human-centered engagement, this session will highlight the importance of collaborative CQI processes and strong data cultures in advancing outcomes, particularly in underrepresented communities. Participants will walk away with practical strategies they can adapt and apply immediately by using real-world examples that demonstrate how inclusive CQI tools support young children, families, and educators. Participants will leave with templates and a ready-to-implement plan for use in their organizations.

Objectives

1. Apply CQI tools using real-world examples
   
2. Analyze mixed-methods data (qualitative + quantitative)
   
3. Co-design data-informed interventions with community input
   
4. Engage stakeholders using storytelling and data visualization
   

Registration and CE Information

• Register here for the CE version and earn 2.0 CEs on completion of the post-webinar quiz
• This listing is for those wanting CEs for LCSW/LSW and LCPC/LPC licenses.
• Please see the non-ce version if you do not need CEs
• The live webinar will be held September 19, 2025, from 10:00am - 12:00pm
• Once registered, you will be able to access the course site to complete the Zoom registration to receive the link for the webinar.

Presenter: Pearl Anzaldúa-Martínez

Pearl Anzaldúa-Martínez is the Director of Quality Assessment for the City of Chicago team at the McCormick Institute’s Center for Early Childhood Leadership at National Louis University. Pearl received her B.A. in Bilingual Bicultural Elementary Education at Northeastern Illinois University. She holds a Masters in Literacy Education from Northeastern Illinois University and is currently a PhD candidate in Curriculum and Instruction at Concordia University in Chicago. Pearl’s work is centered in authentic assessment practices and support systems that advocate for the education of developing English Language Learners and language acquisition programs. Pearl’s research interest is exploring the social and political contexts that affect urban education and bilingual/bicultural students. She is passionate about creating spaces that engage educators, students and communities, in conversations that move toward creating equitable learning environments. Pearl’s work also includes coaching and professional development for teachers in dual language programs, as well as organizations interested in working with English Learners and Literacy Instruction. Pearl is a recipient of Diversifying Faculty in Illinois scholarship, a McNair Scholar, and a member of the National Honors Society.