Sunday, March 3, 2013

Final Farewell


Three Learning Topics

During this journey at Walden, I have learned many things.  I now have a better understanding of diversity and differences.  This new knowledge will allow me help families and to be an advocate for children.  The confidence I have acquired in myself through this journey has been remarkable and I know it will benefit members in my community.

Secondly, as I mentioned above I feel my knowledge will help me be an advocate.  Throughout this program, we have learned various ways to be an advocate.  I am a very quiet person, who does not like to give speeches in front of large groups, but I know now that I can make a difference by finding something that is not completely in the public eye. 

Lastly, working on the final project has helped me in understanding ways make a stand on challenges that are facing many families.  The research has taught me the importance of team building to incorporate individuals that can help with my cause and make changes to benefit others. Developing a community of practice helped me find strengths in individuals and to use those to serve our cause.  Working on the final project also allowed me to reflect on the type of leader I want to be and will now allow me to make the necessary changes to become that leader.

 

Long Term Goal

My long term goal is to put my Master’s Degree in Early Childhood to use.  I plan on opening my own childcare/preschool program. It is not clear yet on where this childcare will be located.  I recently wed and my husband lives in Calgary, Alberta Canada.  He is very supportive of my plans and will help me acquire the center wherever we decide to locate.  Regardless of the location, it is my intent, to provide quality education to all, and to provide assistance to families that struggle to afford childcare and preschool. 

 

Final Farewell

I can’t believe that our time together has come to an end.  It has been an honor and privilege to work and learn from each and every one of you.  It has also been a wonderful experience to have great instructors throughout the entire program.  From the many posts from discussions to blogs, I am confident that each of you will go on to do great things that will have great impacts on early childhood education.  I wish all of you the best of luck with your goals and dreams.  I hope that our paths will cross again in another journey.

Sunday, January 20, 2013

Exploring Roles int he ECE Community: Local and State Levels


 

This week’s blog assignment had us research three local or state organizations that appealed to us.  I had some issues finding appealing organizations to me, but I finally located 3.

The first one is United Way of Monroe County.  I chose this particular organization because it helps our community in regards to abuse, disaster/housing, food/nutrition and many other important topics that can be detrimental to families.  I find each of these worthy causes that need attention.  United Way has many organizations within itself, and the one most dear to me would be the Big Brother Big Sister Program.  This organization helps children reach their potential and allows them one on one time with individuals that really do care about them and their problems.

On the website, it did not list any current job opportunities.  However, it did give ways that you can volunteer.  They ask for donations, and you can also advocate for the organization.

The skills or experience I could foresee with these positions is simply free time, ability to communicate effectively in public settings to promote the organization, be part of a team and self-motivated.

The second organization is called the Great Start Collaborative.  This is sponsored by the Monroe County Intermediate School District.  The focus of this organization is to promote early childhood education.

A current position they have open is for a part time School Health Coordinator.  Skills needed for this job are:  experience working with schools, knowledge of Michigan Model or health education, must be organized and possess good interpersonal skills.


The last organization is The Michigan Association Education of Young Children.  This organization works for children, families and childhood professionals.  They help train staff and work with children from birth through age 8.

They currently have many positions available, but the one most of interest to me is teacher assistant for Head Start.

Skills necessary are documentation of experience working with families of race, ethnic and multicultural backgrounds.  Must speak English and be able to lift 50 lbs. to assist students in emergencies. Must have a minimum of a CDA and working towards a degree in education.  Although not listed, I would also assume one should be a team player, self-motivated.