Partnering with DECE to Empower Thousands of Educators

In June 2026, SOLVED partnered with DECE to support three impactful events that brought together thousands of early childhood educators from across New York City, advancing educator practice, strengthening leadership, and ultimately benefiting children and families across the city.

All photography, video production, editing, and creative assets featured in this project were conceived and produced by SOLVED's Creative Team.
A Remarkable June for the Division of Early Childhood Education
A Remarkable June for the Division of Early Childhood Education
Dr. Georgette Branch at the DECE Belonging from the Beginning event

A word from DECE leadership

“It's been a productive year. We've had so many wins this year. We've had so many moments of successes, so many moments of coming together to solve problems. And because of the productivity, it's been an impactful year!”

Dr. Georgette Branch Dr. Georgette Branch Chief of Learning and Partnerships, Division of Early Childhood Education

About DECE

The NYC Public Schools Division of Early Childhood Education (DECE) provides high-quality care and education for children from birth through age five and beyond — giving every child and family a strong start in school and in life.

Through Pre-K for All, 3-K for All, and EarlyLearn, DECE brings high-quality early childhood programs to children and families in every neighborhood across the five boroughs.

The Partnership

Great classrooms begin with great educators. SOLVED partners with DECE to advance professional learning and to build the platforms bringing it to scale, from a single coaching conversation to a citywide day of instruction.

What we've built together

  • All-City Professional Learning — When nearly 10,000 educators gathered for live learning on Chancellor's Day, we helped shape the session focus areas and connect facilitators with participants across the city.
  • Belonging & Inclusion Conference — A partnership from first idea to final session: 35 workshops across seven tracks, opened by a welcome address from Chancellor Kamar Samuels.
  • DECE Leadership Retreat — A day we designed to celebrate DECE's leadership team and their successes during the year.

A Remarkable June

Three events. One month. Thousands of educators.

Jun4

Virtual Professional Learning

Seen. Heard. Known. Every Child Belongs

The month opened with a citywide virtual professional learning event focused on classrooms where every child feels seen, heard, known, and valued. Educators explored practical ways to strengthen relationships, support student success, and build belonging in every room.

Seen. Heard. Known. — Every Child Belongs virtual event
  • 10,000+unique educators
  • 38live sessions
  • 46presenters
  • 37,000+participations
  • 42,000+CTLE credits
Jun9

In-Person · Advancing Inclusion

Belonging From the Beginning

Advancing Inclusion in Early Childhood Education

DECE welcomed educators for a day devoted to inclusive practice in early childhood classrooms. Through engaging speakers, interactive sessions, and collaborative discussion, participants explored how to give every child a true sense of belonging from the very beginning.

  • 400+educators
  • 30+sessions
  • 50+presenters & speakers

Feature Video

Belonging from the Beginning

Belonging From the Beginning — featured film

Photo galleries

Candids, panels & breakouts

Video Shorts

Jun24

In-Person · Team Retreat

DECE Retreat 2026

Busy. Productive. Impactful.

The month closed with a day of reflection, celebration, and connection. The retreat recognized outstanding educators and staff, honored individual contributions across the Division, and brought the team together — including a lively game show that added real energy to the day.

  • 250+educators
  • 13educators honored

Recap Video

DECE Retreat 2026

DECE Retreat 2026 — recap film

Photo gallery

Retreat moments

A Partnership Focused on Impact

Better-prepared teachers. Stronger leaders. A better start for every child, and a stronger city for all of us.

Partner with SOLVED
Early childhood educators together at the DECE Belonging from the Beginning event

Connect with the SOLVED Team