Back to Work: What’s New at the Institute!

Janet Horras with Sioux City Iowa staff National Home Visiting Week

Janet with Sioux City, Iowa home visitors during NHVW

April was a whirlwind with National Home Visiting Week—but now it’s time to roll up our sleeves. We’re heading into summer focused, energized, and making meaningful improvements across the Institute.

A Better Certification Exam is Coming

Launching this summer, our updated certification exam is built with you in mind:

  • No more tricky or confusing questions 

  • Every question aligned directly to the National Core Competency Framework (component level) 

  • Slightly longer—but far more relevant to your daily work 

Pre-Assessment: Shorter, Smarter, More Useful

We’ve transformed the pre-assessment into a practice test (about 20 questions)—giving you a realistic preview of the certification exam without the overwhelm.

Stronger, Clearer Learning Experience

We’re improving quality across the board:

  • Fill-in-the-blank questions replaced with multiple choice 

  • Ongoing review to ensure all quiz questions align with the Framework and module content 

Updated Registration Questions (First Time in 6+ Years!)

Our data recently supported HRSA’s Workforce Dashboard—proof that what you share matters. To improve accuracy and usefulness:

  • We’re refining questions (including clearer guidance on selecting your role) 

  • We’re adding a new question on compensation 

Why Are We Asking About Compensation?

This isn’t just a data point—it’s a driver for change.

Improving compensation is a key focus of the National Strategy. To advocate effectively and measure progress, we need a clear picture of what home visitors are earning nationwide.

Your Privacy is Protected

Your data is never reported at the individual level, and we maintain strict security protocols with regular testing to keep your information safe.

What to Expect

When updates go live this summer:

  • You’ll be prompted to review and update your registration information upon login 

  • Reminders will be shared via social media and our newsletter 

Questions? Reach out anytime: communications@institutefsp.org

On the Road: Trainings Filling Fast

Our summer and fall schedule are quickly booking with conferences, keynotes, and webinars. Two of our most requested sessions:

  • Into the Fire – boundaries and navigating when policy and practice collide 

  • RESPECT: The Sequel 

And Finally… Thank You!

To the home visitors and supervisors who share your stories, challenges, and wins—thank you. You keep us grounded, informed, and pushing forward.

Happy Learning!

Janet Horras, Executive Director

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Research, Relationships, and the Power of ABC: Meet Sydney Ballenger, a 2026 National Home Visitor of the Year