Leadership Lab 26-27 Program Year - Intake Form

The First 5 Leadership Lab is a 9-month peer learning experience designed to strengthen leadership across the First 5 Network through cross-county partnerships, structured reflection, and collective growth. The program is built on the belief that meaningful leadership development happens through honest exchange with peers — and that requires real commitment from both you and your organization.

By applying, you agree to the following expectations:

Time Commitment
Dedicate approximately 3–4 hours per month to the program, including:

1-hour partner meeting
30–45 minutes engaging with monthly resources (podcasts, articles, reflection prompts)
30 minutes for individual reflection
1.5-hour cohort convenings (3 times during the program - Orientation in September, Mid Point in January, End of Program in May - each convening is approximately 2 hours)
Complete at least one in-person partner visit during the program period

Engagement
- Come prepared to each meeting with reflections, questions, and/or updates on your leadership goals.
- Approach the partnership as a two-way exchange, both giving and receiving support, insights, and feedback.
- Respect confidentiality and create a safe space for open conversation.
- Prioritize partner meetings even during busy seasons — consistency is what makes the partnership work.
- Be willing to share challenges and uncertainties, not just successes.

Goal Setting & Reflection
- Identify and share your individual leadership goals at the start of the program.
- Use provided tools (reflection guides, conversation prompts, etc.) to track progress and support your partner’s growth.
- Complete reflective check-ins or journaling prompts.

Evaluation & Feedback
- Complete short surveys at program milestones (mid-point, end of program).
- Participate in optional interviews or focus groups to help refine and sustain the Leadership Lab.

Organizational Support
- Secure approval from your supervisor/commission to dedicate work time to this program.
- If travel is required, ensure commission/organization support for related time and expenses.

Stipend Support for In-Person Meetings
To encourage and support in-person connection between Leadership Lab partners, each participating First 5 Commission will receive a one-time $100 stipend per individual participating in program. This stipend is provided to the commission (not to individuals) and is intended to offset costs related to in-person meetups between Leadership Lab partners.
Examples of allowable uses include:
- Travel expenses (mileage, parking, transit, etc.)
- Meals or refreshments during partner meetings
- Other reasonable costs directly tied to supporting in-person Leadership Lab gatherings

Please complete this intake form by 6/24 to be considered for the 26-27 cohort.

Section 1: Contact & Demographics

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* 1. Name

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* 2. Pronouns

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* 3. Email

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* 4. Phone number

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* 5. Organization

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* 6. Title/Role

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* 7. Which First5 Network role type best fits your current position/area of expertise?
For more information review our Onboarding resources
Staff - Quick Start Guide
Staff - Onboarding Guide
Executive Director Quick Start Guide
Executive Director Onboarding Guide
Commissioner Quick Start Guide
Commissioner Onboarding Guide

Programs and Services - A First 5 program staff member is responsible for planning, implementing, and monitoring funded programs and services that advance the Commission’s strategic goals

Operational and Administrative Support - A First 5 staff member providing vital operational and administrative support ensures smooth daily operations and strong infrastructure for effective program implementation.

Financial Stewardship and Accountability - A First 5 staff member overseeing fiscal activities safeguards the Commission’s financial integrity by managing operations and ensuring compliance with all funding requirements.

Policy and Advocacy - A First 5 policy staff member aligns the Commission with key priorities, ensuring responsiveness
to legislation, community needs, and opportunities.

Strategic Communications and Public Engagement - A First 5 marketing and communications staff member promotes the Commission’s mission and programs while building awareness, trust, and engagement.

Executive Director - Oversees the strategic planning, funding and evaluation, and budgeting and financial management of a First 5 Commission

First 5 Commissioner - entrusted with critical decision-making responsibilities that shape the direction,
impact, and accountability of their Commissions.

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* 8. Years in First 5 Network/Early Childhood Field

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14% of survey complete.