Early Childhood Leadership Institute
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The Snelling Center for Government invites members of the public, nonprofit and private sectors to apply for admission to the Early Childhood Leadership Institute. The application process is highly competitive, with up to twenty-five associates selected on the basis of their achievements, demonstrated interest in early childhood issues, community, and potential for leadership.
Successful candidates will demonstrate:
- Potential to provide the leadership needed to address issues of statewide significance
- Serious and sustained interest in their communities
- Achievement in their professions and/or civic life
- Real potential for responsible and effective leadership in Vermont
- A commitment to realizing the promise of every Vermont child
The Snelling Center is a non-partisan organization. As such, we encourage applicants from a variety of perspectives and we welcome ideological diversity.
The program is rigorous and demands a significant time commitment, plus a deep commitment to personal growth and development and to making a difference in early childhood work in Vermont.
The ECLI Class of 2026 will begin its training in November of 2025. Most session days take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with one overnight per session. Each session requires some advance preparation and some follow-up. Because of the interactive and interconnected nature of their time together, ECLI Associates are expected to make a full-time commitment to the program and to their own learning and development. The Snelling Center is seeking candidates with a strong sense of integrity and ethics, a disposition towards transparent and collaborative leadership, and the ability to build consensus and political support.
ECLI 2025-2026 Session Dates:
- Thursday and Friday, November 13 & 14, 2025
- Thursday and Friday, December 11 & 12, 2025
- Thursday and Friday, January 15 & 16, 2026
- Thursday and Friday, February 12 & 13, 2026
- Thursday and Friday, March 12 & 13, 2026
- Friday and Saturday, April 10 & 11, 2026
*Please note this is a tentative schedule. Locations will be updated prior to Session 1 and as the program progresses.
The Application Process:
- Complete an application (including a $25 application fee).
- Submit two letters of recommendation (emailed to haley@snellingcenter.org).
- Participate in an interview or informational meeting.
- Confirm your participation in September.
Program Tuition
The Early Childhood Leadership Institute Class of 2026 is funded by a grant through the State of Vermont.
This grant will allow all associates to participate tuition free.
Participants stay together in double rooms, however single room accommodations can be arranged for an additional cost.
The Early Childhood Leadership Institute requires a genuine commitment of energy, time, patience and heart. Associates are expected to be on time and come prepared to each session. Applicants are assumed to value genuine dialogue and inquiry, curiosity about the early childhood issues facing Vermont, and are committed to the state, learning, and their own personal growth. The program design acknowledges that growth and learning can be uncomfortable. We strive to create a safe place for associates to stretch their thinking, challenge their beliefs, and try on new ideas. Associates are expected to participate fully and should have the support and commitment of their employers.