2026 IHSA Fall Conference

Join us at the 2026 IHSA Fall Conference on Friday, October 30, 2026.  Talk with exhibitors, other Head Start Staff, and learn more about Trauma Informed Practice and how Connections Matter!

In the morning we will hear from Lisa Cushatt from Iowa ACEs 360, she will talk about Understanding Trauma and Trauma Informed Practice.  In the afternoon we will hear from Lora Kracht, LLC who works closely with Iowa ACEs 360 about how Connections Matter.  Contential breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack will be provided.  During lunch we will have our Annual Meeting.  We hope you can join us for a very full day!

Understanding Trauma and Trauma Informed Practice

Presenter: Lisa Cushatt, Executive Director of Iowa ACEs 360

This session will focus on trauma and childhood experiences and their impact on the health and well-being of children and families, as well as strategies to promote the conditions needed to thrive. It will also provide an introduction to trauma-informed care and practical application of key skills.

Connections Matter

Presenter: Lora Kracht

Connections Matter is a community-based initiative that explores how the connections we make in life profoundly impact our brain’s ability to grow and our own individual abilities to cope and thrive. This interactive training will demonstrate how caring connections serve as a primary buffer in the negative effects of trauma. Connections Matter ultimately strives to promote the building of more resilient, compassionate, and trauma-informed communities – thus allowing all children and individuals to succeed.

We have a new registration rate for the Fall Conference!

The early bird registration rate is $99. (Through September 30, 2026.)

October 1 – 16 registration is $125.

The last day to register is October 16, 2026.