Frequently Asked Questions
Registration
What is included in the cost?
Conference registration for two days of interactive workshops, light breakfast and lunch each day, snacks and refreshments throughout the conference.
Is there a team discount?
Team discounts are available to teams of three or more members from the same organization. The discounted rate per person for a team of 3+ is $149.00 for Early Bird, and $249.00 for Regular Registration.
Are there any scholarships available?
At this time, we are not able to offer scholarships. However, many states such as California and Colorado are currently implementing Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) programs and educators may use state grant funds (Educator Effectiveness grants in California, for example) for registration and travel expenses. We encourage educators to check with their districts regarding funds to pay for them to travel and attend professional learning events. If you need support in securing funding, we have created a Conference Advocacy Kit that you can take and edit to fit your needs.
Can I cancel my registration?
All requests for conference cancellations must be submitted in writing prior to the start of the conference. Cancellation notifications must be emailed to contact@ecpbl.com. Refunds will be based on the date we receive your cancellation email and will be assessed a processing fee. For emails received from
November 1, 2024 - January 31, 2025: 100% refund (less a 5% fee)
February 1 - 28, 2024: 75% refund (less a 5% fee)
March 1 - March 30, 2025: 50% refund (less a 5% fee)
March 31 - April 3, 2025: No refunds issued.
What payment methods are accepted for registration fees?
Payments can be made using a credit card through this website.
Venue and Logistics
Are there conference hotel recommendations?
A limited number of discounted hotel rooms are available at a first-come, first-served basis at the Holiday inn Missoula Downtown. The hotel is located just minutes from the university. Please use the code ECE or call the hotel and mention the code and conference. You can use this link to book your rooms.
To receive the discounted rate, book your rooms by March 4. After March 4, you may call to inquire if rooms are still available at that rate. Call Jayne at 406-532-2059 and let them know you are attending the ECE Summit/ECPBL25 Conference.
Here are a few additional hotel suggestions without a discounted rate that are located just minutes from the University:
Residence Inn Missoula Downtown
What do I need to know to book my travel?
Conference attendees will fly into the Missoula Montana Airport. The airport is 8 miles from the University of Missoula campus (approximately 15 minute drive). There are several hotels in close proximity (5 minute drive) to the campus.
What is the dress code for the conference?
Dress code for the event is business casual. April is still a chilly time of year, especially in the mornings and evenings. It is advisable to bring layers (sweaters, vests, jackets, etc.) in the event you get cold.
Is there a place for informal gatherings and discussion?
Yes, we will have designated spaces across the UM campus to connect with colleagues, extend the conversations, and take time to reflect on the conference sessions.
How can I get to the venue from the nearest hotel or public transport?
All recommended hotels are within a few minutes of the conference venue, making transportation easy:
Walking: The venue is easily accessible on foot from most nearby hotels, so walking may be the quickest and simplest option.
Hotel Shuttles: Some hotels offer complimentary shuttles. Check with your hotel for availability and schedules.
Ride Shares and Taxis: Services like Uber, Lyft, and local taxis are also available for those who prefer a quick ride.
Is parking available, and what are the fees?
Free parking on Friday is only available in the reserved parking garage. A map and instructions for accessing the parking garage will be provided. Parking is free across campus on Saturdays.
What else might we do since we are making the trip to Missoula?
Set against Montana’s breathtaking mountains and rivers, Missoula offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, vibrant arts, and unique local eateries. With activities from scenic hikes to exploring the historic downtown, there’s plenty to enjoy outside of conference hours.
Here is a PDF of recommendations to explore Missoula’s highlights:
Accessibility and Special Requirements
We are committed to making this workshop accessible and inclusive for everyone. If you need any accommodations or support to fully participate, please let us know—whether it’s physical accessibility, materials in alternate formats, or any other adjustments. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where everyone can engage, contribute, and feel valued. Thank you for helping us make this an accessible experience for all.
If you would like to request any specific accommodations, please email contact@ecpbl.com. We will be best able to serve you if we have an understanding of your needs prior to the conference.
Will you have Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegan meals?
Dietary restrictions will be solicited from each participant once you’ve registered. Every effort will be made to accommodate these restrictions, within reason. GF, Dairy Free and Vegan meals will be available upon prior request.
Program and Sessions
Who should attend?
Teachers, instructional assistants, family child care providers who work with children ages 3-8, instructional coaches, school leaders who support early childhood educators (preschool, Transitional Kindergarten, kindergarten through second grade) in elementary school settings.
What are the hours of the conference?
Please check out our official conference schedule here.
The conference officially begins on Friday, April 4th at 1:00 pm and concludes at 5:15 pm. We’d love to see you before the conference for an informal meet and greet, beginning at 11:00 or after the conference for an optional film screening from 5:15 - 6:15 pm. The hours on Saturday, April 5th are 8:00 am - 4:00 pm with a light breakfast beginning at 7:15 am.
Will we get to visit the school? Will it be in session?
School will not be in session during the conference, but you will have opportunities to tour the different learning spaces and interact with faculty and possibly student presenters. Learn more about the classroom visits here.
Do I need to do anything to prepare before attending the conference? What do I need to bring with me to conference sessions?
Bring a device to access conference slides and resources. WiFi will be available throughout the conference, and in an effort to reduce the use of paper, many resources will be provided digitally. Please bring along a water bottle. Refill stations are located throughout the campus.
Will I receive continuing education credits after attending?
We are not able to offer continuing education credits, but are happy to generate a certificate of attendance with the number of hours attended if that helps.
Will I get to select which sessions I attend?
Participants will get to choose which workshops to attend throughout the two-day event on a first-come, first serve basis. All main workshops will be offered multiple times to ensure you don’t miss any important content.
Will this be recorded? Available online?
Session presentations will not be recorded or streamed online.
Will session materials and presentations be available after the conference?
Our goal is to make the sessions as engaging and interactive as possible. The presenters will share the workshop-specific resources during the sessions and make sure participants have what they need to continue the work after the conference.
Will all of the authors be there?
Yes! The three authors of Implementing Project Based Learning in Early Childhood will lead many of the workshop sessions and be available for consultation.
Can I get a copy of the book at a discounted price?
Copies of Implementing Project Based Learning in Early Childhood are available for purchase from Amazon or at a discount from Routledge (Discount code coming soon!)
Covid-19 and Health Measures
What are the health and safety guidelines? What are COVID protocols?
Masks are optional. If you are not feeling well, please stay home. Common areas will be cleaned regularly after each session and all efforts will be made to create a safe environment for your participation.
Contact Information and Questions
How can I reach the conference organizers for specific questions or concerns?
Please email contact@ecpbl.com