Communities of Practice

Both local and state organization in Early Childhood Education are important CoPs within our field. I myself find that I am part of several communities of practice. I am part of my companies community of practice among the other directors in my corporate district. This is a group of individuals who hold the same position at other area schools, allowing for a sounding board with other questions.

Other local CoPs are the local Director's Network through our local Child Care Council, local resource agency; I have attended several meetings discussing important changes to our licensing requirements for the state. Another CoP that I have become a part of in the past is NAEYC, I am a member, along with our state and local chapters. Each of these communities offers assistance and unlimited resources of support.

Although, I am very happy in my current role, I do not see myself as a director of a school for the rest of my career. I will continue to look for positions within the state agencies, and local resource organizations. There are limited roles available in Accreditation organizations, I would like to become an event organizer for the training events held nationwide. My true passion is in curriculum and training the adults who teach our young children. Another opportunity that I may explore in the future is with our local college communities, teaching young adults who are emerging into the field.
These roles require more time within the field to understand the importance of training others.

Word it Out!!! PLAY

Play. One of the best times as a child is now known as one of the most important times during a child's academic schooling.

Wordle It Out!

Wordle it Out! Issues and trends in Early Childhood Education. We must all be advocates for our young students and their families. These are the issues I find most working in the field: poverty, hunger, bias, collaboration, worthy wages, and teacher prepartion/career ladders.

Our Future in Early Childhood

As I look ahead, eight weeks from today...we will be accomplishing no minor feat. A Masters in Early Childhood, only those who work in the field and understand the importance of education pursue this degree. Most of the people I have met outside our field, think it odd I love working in the environment I do. The fast paced and sometimes stressful responsibility of caring and educating upwards of 65 young child (in our small center).

I am fortunate to work with a strong group of women, managing my sister schools and ensuring I understand the company policies. What I bring to the table is the knowledge and excitement gained throughout this program.

Three years ago, I began this program under a different specialty, I thought I would be a teacher. After 18 months of courses, I decided I wanted to be an educator and administrator. I am encouraged by our professors and others within the field, hoping to one day educate other adults to guide young children.

I look forward to hearing all of your thoughts and feelings about early childhood education over the next eight weeks. I hope you enjoy my thoughts, as well.