Time Well Spent

EDUC 6990 has been a course that I would have to say has been the most challenging. When I first enter this course, I was so out of whack that I started the course on a bad note, however, I got myself together and pulled through to make myself as well as my professor proud. Since the beginning of this program, one key important thing that I have learn is how to communicate with people I interact with on a daily basis. There has to be some type of line when it comes to communicating with your colleagues in a professional setting and those you interact with outside of the professional environment. I also learned how important it is to be diverse within the workplace as well as the program you may work for. When it comes to families, we have to make sure we are respectful of their beliefs and make them feel welcomed and important. Last but not least, from this program, I learned the difference from listening and hearing. People believe that listening and hearing are the same but in reality, they are not. I am proud to be a student at Walden University because it has taught me many values and information that I can use in my classroom and my career. As this journey come to an end, I would like to thank my professor Dr. E for all of her help and feedback she provides me with every week. She is very informative and honest in her feedback. I am glad to have a teacher who offers no slack because he helped me manage my time and to meet deadlines with no excuses. My colleagues have been great with their motivation and feedback within the discussion board responses. I will forever be grateful for their commitment, honesty, determination in this class. In the future, I hope to become a director of a program that focus on children in low income areas where I can provide high quality education to them. I believe the children are our future and we should give them the best that they deserve.

 

Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: Internationally

The first organization that appealed to me is the organization entitled “The International Step by Step Association.” This organization was found in 1999 and just recently celebrated 15 years last year 2014. I chose The International Step by Step Association also known as ISSA because of they believe in and their vision for children. Due to my passion for young children living in poor community, I love how ISSA “provides high quality care and educational services for all children from birth through primary school (birth through 10 years old), with a focus on the poorest and most disadvantage” (issa.nl, 2011). ISSA believes that a society of families, communities and professional should work together to empower children to reach their full potential and embrace values of social justice and equity.

Since ISSA does not have any job opening, I will post how to become a member of this organization and what you have to do as a member. To become a member of ISSA, The Membership Committee contributes to network building and to strengthening ISSA as an international learning community. Their role is to enhance ISSA’s internal communications, facilitate exchanges and shared learning among members. Members of the committee provide input to the process of surveying members and mapping members’ needs while assisting the ISSA Secretariat in membership recruitment and retention. On key issues such as draft strategies and work plans, they support the Board and Secretariat in consultation with members, they advise on plans for Council Meetings and for professional development opportunities for members. (Retrived from www.issa.nl)

Website: International Step By Step Association. (n.d.). Retrieved November 28, 2011, from http://www.issa.nl/index.html

 Save the Children is an organization that is established to help poor children around the world. Saved the children first started back in 1932 where their “Intitial programs provided clothing, school supplies and hot lunches to school children in Harlan County, Kentucky” (savethechildre.org, 2012). I chose this organization, Save the Children because they focus on giving children a healthy start and providing them what they need to give them the opportunity to learn. You are able to get involved with this organization and also provide a donation to keep this organization going. Save the children believe in saving children’s lives.

Career Opportunity:

Associate Director Talent Acquisition

Location: US - DC - DC Home Office

Division.: Human Resources

Knowledge, Skills and Bbehaviors: ·         Knowledge of Human Resources principles and practices; exceptional communication and collaboration skills. ·         Customer focus is critical; must be able to build effective relationships within and across the Agency. ·         Proven experience with Microsoft PC applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and database skills. ·         Strong experience working with applicant tracking systems.   ·         Effective time management, analytical, organizational and follow-up skills. Ability and willingness to handle multiple priorities, excellent attention to detail, flexibility to adjust to changing priorities, ability to take initiative and work independently with minimal supervisions Background and Experience: ·         Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience ·         5-9 years of full-life cycle recruitment of exempt and nonexempt positions ·         Proficiency in the use of applicant tracking systems required. Expertise in the use of  Taleo highly preferred. ·         Work in a non-profit sector of international development preferred ·         Past experience working successfully in a high energy/ high demanding/ multi-tasking environment

Website: Save the Children. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.savethechildren.org/site/c.8rKLIXMGIpI4E/b.6115947/k.8D6E/Official_Site.htm

UNICEF is an organization that promotes the rights and wellbeing of children. They partner and work in 190 countries to translate that commitment into practical action. This organization was created with a “distinct purpose in mind to work with others to overcome the obstacles that poverty, violence, disease and discrimination place in a child’s path” (unicef.org, 2015). I chose this organization because of their dedication to children around the world and their passion on overcoming poverty for children around the world. I am very passionate about poverty and any agency that tries to help families overcome it, is a agency I will promote.

Job Opportunities: Education You will be responsible for developing and implementing Education programme(s) to ensure overall efficiency and effectiveness, and accomplishment of programme goals and objectives. Key areas include: Girls’ Education, Education in Emergencies and Post Conflict Situations, Early Childhood Development.

Website: United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). (n.d.). Retrieved November 28, 2011, from http://www.unicef.org/

Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: National/Federal Level

I am very estactic that I am close to receiving my Masters Degree. I never dreamt in a million years that I would be a parent attending school to obtain my Masters, but now that is coming to true. With my Masters, I see so many opportunities that I could get with the skills and education level. I chose tree organization that I chose to work for that best describes me. They are:

1.)    National Association for the Education of Young Children is a professional membership organization that provides guidelines and information on effective and high quality learning. They provide accreditations not only to learning centers but also colleges and universities.
Early Learning Systems Senior Director, Higher Education Accreditation and Support
 
             Through strong leadership and effective management, the Senior Director must have

• Minimum of a Master’s degree in human services management, early childhood education, child development, instructional design, adult learning, education policy, higher education administration, or a related field. • 5 years of experience in accreditation systems and higher education or professional development systems; at least 3 years with significant supervisory/management responsibility. • Knowledge of higher education accreditation systems, higher education systems, and/or state professional development systems and their connection to ECE professional preparation • Knowledge of early childhood education or child development.  Knowledge of current issues and key stakeholders in the early childhood education field, particularly as they relate to the early childhood workforce. Experience in public speaking, developing, and presenting material to a national professional audience, and facilitating group processes.

·         I chose this position because of the experience I have. As a center coordinator, I am in charge of all licensing procedures, the well-being of children, budgeting, conducting trainings, and providing materials. Based on my qualifications, this job would be a perfect opportunity for me.

 

2.)    Save the Children: Save the children is an organization that invest in childhood. They help families and children around the world by giving children healthy start, opportunities to gain an education and protections from those that may harm them.

Advisor, Child Protection

Save the Children Advisor for Child Protection must

• Demonstrated experience with the child protection sector in Kenya;
• Bachelor’s degree in social work with a minimum of 5 years’ experience on technical and managerial positions, Master’s degree in social sciences or public health preferred;
• Experience with child protection programming, community-based care programs and OVC programming;
• A history of productive involvement with governmental social protection systems, processes and service delivery models in developing countries;
• Demonstrated problem solving skills, collaboration experience, creativity and willingness to innovate;
• Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to lead and work effectively in team situations;
• Familiarity and understanding of USAID policies and procedures, or those of donor-funded projects or community-based projects;
• Fluent oral and strong analytical, written English communications skills is required;
• Able to promote Save the Children´s Child Safeguarding Policy to ensure maximum protection for children.

*This job appeals to me because of my love for children and the type of work. With my masters and experience working with families, I love interacting with people and learning more about families what I can do to help.

 

3.) Early Head Start Program is a program from children from birth to age three. Early Head Start provide educational materials, meals, and enrichment activities for these young individuals. They work with at risk children and offer families an opportunity to provide quality education to their children.

Early Head Start Coordinator

 

Early Head Start Education Coordinator you must first ◾Have a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education/Infant and Toddlers/Early Intervention and/or Special Needs preferred ◾At least 15 units/credits related to the care of infant and toddlers or Infant and toddlers CDA credential ◾Have at least 1 to 3 years working with infant and toddlers ◾Have at least 2 to 3 years supervising personnel ◾Knowledge of Early Head Start regulations ◾Demonstrated knowledge of child learning and development.◾Ability to speak, write and comprehend Spanish and English fluently (preferred).  ◾Ability  to secure clearances for Drug Use, Child Abuse, Criminal History; FBI fingerprinting  required. ◾Ability to work flexible hours (2 evenings per month).  ◾Strong organizational, time management and problem-solving skills. This is a detail-oriented position.  ◾Ability to analyze data, and develop reports. ◾Ability to respond appropriately (both mentally and physically) to an emergency or a crisis situation. ◾Ability to walk at least 3 miles and climb steps (2nd and 3rd floor) ◾Ability to carry at least 30 pounds

 

*I chose this job because I want to use my degree to become a supervisor in an early childhood setting. Being an employee for head start in advance, gives me experience, knowledge and what is expected of me as an employee.

 

Sites Used

           https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc/hs/careers

www.naeyc.org

https://chc.tbe.taleo.net/chc01/ats/careers/requisition.jsp?org=SAVETHECHILDREN&cws=1&rid=3220 

Exploring Roles in the ECE Community: Local and State Levels

For the past eight years, I have been working with children and have gained a passion for them. As a educator in preschool settings, I believe that our community is what shapes us. In the area that I reside in, I am pleased at the local community centers, recreation parks, YMCA's, and many local agencies that are around to help our families and children. In my local community as well as statewide, there are a few organization that are dear to me because of what they do for our community. The organizations are:

1.       Office of Human Affairs: The Office of Human Affairs is an agency that provides a great deal of resources to the community. The agency provides education, free information of housings and jobs, courses for first time home buyers, Pre-K four initiative, and helping youth in the community to obtain the GED. This agency also offer and early head start and head start program in five cities are the state of Virginia (Norfolk, Portsmouth, Newport News, Chesapeake, and Hampton). This agency first open in 1966 and was first name the Newport News Office of Economic Opportunity. In the year 2016, they will be celebrating 50 years of service to the community. (ohainc.org)

2.       VAECE.org which stands for the Virginia Association for Early Childhood Education  is an organization that is great for educators in the state of Virginia. As a spin off of the organization NAEYC which stands for the National Association for the Education of Young Children, VAECE provides information on the state level in regards to early childhood education. I chose this agency because of its dedication to it early childhood professionals. It provides, newsletters, activities that are going on, resources, trainings, and membership opportunities for those who are interested in learning more about early childhood education.

3.       Boys and Girls Club of Hampton roads is my all time favorite organization. I love this organization because it provides the youth a place to go during summer break, after school and even promotes positive outcome for the youth. The Boys and Girls Club of Hampton Roads have been serving the community for many years. It gives children a place to go where they can stay out of trouble and do something positive.

•Job opportunities (currently available or not) that interest you

Early Childhood Special Educator

Location: City of Norfolk, Norfolk, Virginia

Department: Community Service Board

•Skills and experience that you would need to competently fulfill each of these roles

Bachelor's degree in special education or related educational field.

Experience working with developmentally delayed infants/toddlers.

Valid driver's license; Virginia Department of Education licensure with endorsement in one of the following 6 categories:

•Early Childhood Special Education (birth-5)

•Early/Primary Education (PreK-3)

•Early/Primary Education (NK-4)

•Elementary Education (PreK-6)

•Special Education - General Curriculum (K-12)

•Special Education - Adopted Curriculum (K-12)

A Master's degree is preferred.

Agency.govermentjobs.com

EDUCATION SUPPORT SPECIALIST III
(ADULT CAREER COACH)
CAREER SERVICES / WORKFORCE TRANSITIONS
HAMPTON CAMPUS

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED: Candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree in related field such as
business management, business administration, counseling, human resources, social services,
workforce development or closely related academic discipline from an accredited college or university. A minimum of two years of experience, with at least one year of academic advising experience and/or education is required. Professional experience in an academic setting as a graduation coach, adult career coach, counselor, or a transition specialist is essential. Considerable knowledge of skills assessments, adult learning theory and career planning with adult populations. Knowledge of the WIA/WIOA federal funding programs. Working knowledge of educational and training programs and services available through higher education or workforce development. Demonstrated ability to coordinate services with multiple agencies, and business and educational providers, in order to market programs and service to adults. Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply complex regulatory guidelines, and labor market trends. Proficiency inMicrosoft Office software is required. The Adult Career Coach must demonstrate initiative as a self-starter, be analytically astute, exercise good judgment, and highly motivated to competently achieve performance expectations with minimal supervision. The candidate must be able to effectively communicate orally and in writing. Public presentation experience is needed. Must have a valid driver’s license. Must beable to work at all campus locations. Criminal history and other background checks will be required of the finalist candidate for this position. Satisfactory reference and background checks are a condition of employment.
QUALIFICATIONS PREFERRED: Knowledge and understanding of the network of available state
and local support services and related resources and how to access them. Understanding of the role and function of the One Stop System and Virginia Employment Commission. Knowledge of state and
regional labor market trends and opportunities and understanding of the specific needs of area
employers. Experience with Student Support Systems or Virginia Workforce Connection. Ability to
build networks and obtain cooperation from a variety of partners, including business and industry and entities operating within Virginia’s Workforce Network.

tncc.edu

 

 

Thank you

  During this eight weeks course, my colleagues have been very supportive, honest, and motivated in the knowledge of communication and collaboration. I have learned so much regarding communication and the many types of communication. Non-Verbal is just as important as verbal communication and both are powerful. I am grateful to have met and interacted with all of my colleagues and I wish you all so much success in the future.

anhankerson88@gmail.com


Ashley Hankerson

Groups

    When I think of the adjourning stage,  I think of wrapping things up and bringing it to a close. I remember there was a time when I was in a group/team that I truly loved. It was hard to leave the group because of the bond we built by working together everyday. We had obstacles can got in our way, but we stuck together no matter what. I was very heart broken when the team was broken up and sent to various location to work with other teachers and assistants. My teacher assistant and I worked great together and because of that, we were broken up and sent to other schools. I then had to learn not to get too attached to people I work with because we may not always work together.

  As a team, we decided to that for our last day together, we were going to go out to eat. We really enjoyed ourselves but realize things are not going to be the same. We still keep in touch with each other and go out every once in awhile. The new team who we work with I constantly fight with each other and that's not something I am use too.

   Now that I am in my masters program, I have built friendships and met colleagues who are great. It is hard to interact with each other because most of us live across the country. As my masters experience is coming to a close within the next two months, I hope that I can keep in touch with some of my classmates who I have met along the way.

Conflct Resolutions

 
     When I think of a conflict that happened in my work place, I think of the time that a parent in my room accused me of something that never happened. The issue happened when the parent called my supervisor of allegation of her son being slap by someone and the parent assumed it was by the teacher. The parent threaten to report me to the director and have me fired. The next day I spoke with my supervisor about the allegation because I know the type of teacher I am and that's not my character. After speaking to my supervisor I felt better, but not too comfortable because I do not do well with misconceptions. That same day, the parent came in an apologized about the allegations stating that her son said a friend did it and not his teacher and that he did not tell the teacher that it happened to him. I felt relieved that the truth came out because I am passionate about my career and I wouldn't do anything to jeopardize my career choice. Till this day, the parent still apologize for almost getting me fired over a misunderstanding.

     When I think of the three R's, the one that I would use the most is respect. I say respect because respect must go two ways, however, in this profession, you must stay respectful even if those individuals aren't respectful to you. A open line of communication is also needed to reduce conflict. When it comes to my parents, I almost always have a open line of communication whether its a little push, just to tell them about their child day or even to see how they are doing. In a situation that I was in, you must remain humble and respectful to parents even after a chaotic incident took place. It is always appreciated when a individual can admit they are wrong and apologize for being wrong.