Final Post Early Childhood Studies

This program has allowed me to reconnect with the passions in my life.   From the first class where I was able to read, discuss and share about breastfeeding I was hooked.   This is a strong area in my life and I share with others every chance I get  about the importance of breastfeeding and supporting mothers in our culture, and there it was, in the very first chapter of my very first class.   I truly believe this was God's way of telling me I could handle this program (with all of my other life stresses) and I belonged here.

I learned that I was capable and I was still a learner.  Somewhere in my 16 years as an educator, I forgot who I was and was getting stagnant.  I needed this to boost me and fill me with new knowledge.  I especially feel that the concentration in Teaching Adults in Early Childhood has helped me the most.   I use a new strategy every day!

I also believe the discussion on culture and equity have impacted the way I look at not only education but society.  I recently struggled to sit through a dinner with friends as I listened to the way they viewed diversity.  I hope I am relaying the concepts of an anti-biased, diversified world to the future teachers I work with.  

My long term goal is to help create my own early childhood center in my small town.  I have begun the process already and hope to open May first.  My longer term goal is to add Kindergarten thru third grade so families have choices in their children's education.  

To my colleagues, I wish you all well as you set forth on your own life journeys.   For those of you who are working parents and have families, God Bless you for riding this ride with me.  I haven't been this proud of myself in quite some time:)  

Dr. E., your support and willingness to communicate throughout the course was wonderful.  I do not believe I have received that kind of help in any other course.   I will surely keep you updated on my programs and future plans.  

"Fake it, till you make it"    My college roommate hung this in our room for three years (18 years ago)  and I when I was short on strength and drive, I faked it !!!!!  and now I have made it:)