
The Institute for Education and Professional Development, Inc. (IEPD) is a certified woman-owned business dedicated to supporting early childhood and out-of-school-time professionals through high-quality training, coaching, and consultation.
IEPD is an Accredited Provider of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through the International Accreditors of Continuing Education and Training (IACET). We offer engaging, research-based professional development that is practical, relevant, and immediately applicable to practice.
With a catalog of 75+ trainings, IEPD provides comprehensive professional learning solutions for both new and experienced educators, as well as program leaders and directors, working with children from infancy through school age. Our offerings include training, coaching, and consultation designed to strengthen practice, build capacity, and support continuous quality improvement across programs.
IEPD offers professional development in both English and Spanish, with the capacity to expand to additional languages to meet the needs of diverse communities. Learning opportunities are available in multiple formats, including online (via LearnWorlds), live virtual sessions (via Zoom), in-person training, and hybrid models to ensure accessibility and flexibility.
IEPD also provides CDA-aligned pathways that integrate coursework and individualized coaching, along with training that meets Massachusetts Department of Labor (MA DOL) Apprenticeship requirements. Coaching services are available both onsite and virtually and may include CLASS, TPOT, and TPITOS observations, using a strength-based, growth-focused coaching model.
All learning opportunities are aligned with current best practices and are designed to enhance educator effectiveness, strengthen leadership, and improve outcomes for children and families.
We are committed to providing the highest quality professional development grounded in current research, best practices and practical strategies that educators can apply immediately in their work.
We believe in the power of lifelong learning. Through responsive, innovative professional development and program support, we
promote meaningful growth and lasting, system-wide improvements in early education and care.
We value and respect all dimensions of diversity. We strive to embed inclusive and culturally responsive practices throughout our services so that educators can support children and families in honoring and appreciating diversity in our communities.
We center our work on the needs and strengths of educators, children, and families. By supporting those who care for and educate young children, we contribute to stronger programs and healthier communities.
We believe strong partnerships strengthen the early childhood field. We actively collaborate with programs, agencies, and community partners to promote quality early education and improve outcomes for children and families.
We advocate for high-quality early childhood education that is accessible to all children and families. Through leadership, partnerships, and participation in advisory groups, we work to advance policies and practices that strengthen the field.

At The Institute for Education and Professional Development (IEPD), Inc., we envision a future where every child flourishes in high-quality early education programs, growing into healthy, compassionate, and capable adults who contribute positively to their communities and help shape a better world.

At IEPD, our mission is to empower early childhood educators and strengthen early learning programs through high-quality professional development, coaching, and consultation. We partner with educators, programs, and agencies to support nurturing, inclusive, and engaging environments where young children can grow, thrive, and reach their full potential.

IEPD complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, religion, creed, political affiliation, sexual orientation, or sex (including gender identity and gender expression) in its programs, services, or activities.
We are committed to providing an in
IEPD complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, religion, creed, political affiliation, sexual orientation, or sex (including gender identity and gender expression) in its programs, services, or activities.
We are committed to providing an inclusive, respectful, and equitable learning environment for all participants, educators, and partners.

Our team at the Institute for Educational Development consists of experienced professionals who are passionate about education. We are dedicated to providing the best possible experience for our clients and are committed to staying at the forefront of educational innovation through our programs at the Institute for Professional Development and the Institute of Professional Development.
Welcome to IEPD! Our mission at the Institute for Educational Development is to support educators, families, and programs in providing high-quality care and education for young children. I have been involved in the field of early childhood education since my youth. My experience includes elementary education, serving as the Director of an early education and care program, and developing training for agencies and educators at the Department of Early Education and Care and the Institute for Professional Development. I am proud of our work at IEPD as it is the result of years of experience and education aimed at supporting the growth and learning of both children and adults. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, and a Doctorate Degree in Adult Learning. Additionally, I am a CDA Professional Development Specialist, certified by the Council for Professional Recognition. My lifelong mission has been to promote quality early childhood programming for children, families, and educators alike. Please reach out to me with any questions, to discuss your work, or simply to connect! Let’s collaborate to ensure that each child has a solid foundation, so that one day, every child can be happy, successful in their own way, and develop a deep love of learning! I can be reached at j.figuerido@iepd.org.


IEPD, Inc., recognized as a Certified Women Owned Business, is also associated with the Institute for Educational Development and the Institute for Professional Development, showcasing our commitment to fostering growth and opportunities in the field of professional advancement.

IEPD, Inc., an accredited IACET provider, is recognized for its commitment to excellence in the field of educational development. As part of the Institute for Educational Development and the Institute for Professional Development, IEPD is dedicated to enhancing professional skills through innovative programs at the Institute of Professional Development.
Our monthly E-News from the Institute for Professional Development provides information on upcoming trainings, early childhood links, and curriculum ideas, along with a brief article for the month. If you would like to receive our newsletter from the Institute for Educational Development, please submit your email address below.
The Institute for Education and Professional Development, Inc.
298 N. Main St., PO Box 366, N. Uxbridge, MA 01538