As I start this new course, Dynamics of Early Childhood Policies and Systems, I have been asked to reflect on early childhood systems and policy. Also, three goals that will assist me in becoming an effective early childhood professional as I reach to achieve my goals.
1. A better understanding of other early childhood systems. I have gone on many interviews and have discovered that so many different early childhood programs are using many different early childhood systems. It is very difficult to say that I am well versed in all of them. Yes, I have heard of most of them before but to say I am an expert, not so much.
2. Interaction with other early childhood professionals in the field. I believe that there is no better way to work than to learn from those who have come before. I was fortunate to have found a mentor years ago that I now call friend. She taught me as an undergrad how to be a preschool teacher. Today as I work in an elementary school I find myself drawn to other fabulous teachers who are showing me the ropes what it is like to be an elementary school teacher.
3. Become better versed in early childhood and the politics behind it. As I member of NAEYC I have received many e-mails recently about this upcoming election year and how to vote based on which candidate will help early childhood education in the Untied States. This is something I have not thought about until the last year or so. Yes, I do believe that it is important to find the candidate that will push legislation to put more funding behind early childhood education.
I hope to learn more in this new course to help me to prepare for my bright future.
Jolene
