Who We Are

We are a diverse and growing network of Texas educators, families, artists, administrators, and advocates who are inspired by the principles and practices of the Reggio Emilia approach. Together, we are committed to deepening our professional practice, examining our beliefs about children in society, and creating conditions where all children across backgrounds, cultures, and communities experience learning environments that recognize their voices, rights, and capabilities.

Leadership

TRIN was founded by Lisa Yanofsky, and will be run democratically by a volunteer leadership board. To express your interest in joining the board, please contact us.

What is the Reggio Emilia Approach?

The Reggio Emilia approach is an educational philosophy that views children as curious, capable, and full of ideas. Originating in northern Italy after World War II, it centers on relationships, creativity, and the co-construction of knowledge among children, educators, and families. Learning is guided by inquiry, made visible through documentation, and enriched by the hundred languages of children - the many ways they express and explore the world.

In the American context, educators adapt Reggio principles to reflect their local cultures, communities, and school systems. Rather than following a fixed model, they embrace it as a way of thinking centered on child-led learning, reflective teaching, collaborative relationships, and environments that honor equity, beauty, and belonging.

Vision

We envision a Texas where all children experience exceptional, inclusive, and joyful learning environments that honor their voices, center their ideas, support their development, celebrate their cultures, and uphold their rights as citizens in a democratic society.

Mission

The Texas Reggio-Inspired Network (TRIN) exists to support and strengthen Reggio-inspired practices in Texas by fostering meaningful connections among educators, families, and communities. Through professional development, shared inquiry, advocacy, and reflection, we amplify child-centered, relationship-driven, and equity-rooted approaches to teaching and learning.

Our Goals

  • Facilitate professional learning grounded in the values of the Reggio Emilia approach.

  • Create community among educators and families

  • Advocate for educational systems and policies that support inquiry-based, democratic learning experiences.

  • Celebrate and support educators in their reflective practices and documentation of learning.

  • Serve as a resource for schools, centers, and communities exploring Reggio-inspired work.