![]() I helped start the early childhood programs in my last three schools. I have been a member for about eleven years. I think it is important to be part of a professional organization that supports early childhood educators through continuing education, networking, and advocacy. I became a member through my NAEYC membership. I have been in the field for over twenty-five years. I teach PreK/Kindergarten at the Chicago Free School. “The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.” – Plutarch I enjoy family time, prayer, hanging out with children, and being a community advocate. Just because you are different does not mean you cannot be beautiful! The Ugly Duckling is my favorite children’s book. I enjoy being part of a team of professionals who actually care about the children they teach and serve. In September 2021, the Heart of Illinois Chapter held it’s forty year anniversary banquet! This is my favorite memory with Illinois AEYC. I am proud to have graduated from Illinois Central College with my Advanced Certificate in Child Development. I want to be a voice for the children who are not heard. I want to be a part of making a difference in a child’s life. I have had three children to start with Head Start. I am not presently in the field, but I advocate for early learning for our children. And I am passionate about early childcare along with many other things I advocate for. As an inspirational speaker, I use my person experience to bring awareness to things that I am passionate about. I am also the Heart of Illinois Chapter Family Child Care Liaison. ![]() “Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” ~ Dr. But mostly I love to read, and started a monthly book club 17 years ago that’s still going strong! My husband and I have been married for 25 years, and we’ve known each other for 44 (which is weird!) We have two daughters, a sophomore in college and a junior in high school. It’s also a really good way to teach about emotions, respect for others, and forgiveness. Maybe I like it so much because Lilly kind of reminds me of little me. Even though she’s a mouse, Lilly is a totally relatable student – enthusiastic, a little un-focused, dramatic, emotional. Everyone should have a teacher as kind and understanding as Mr. Lillys Purple Plastic Purse, by Kevin Henkes is my favorite children’s book. What is your favorite children’s book and why? I’ve recently found the Hello Online forums helpful if I’m looking for specific ideas from other educators. I really appreciate the resources available through the NAEYC website – journal articles, webinars, etc. It’s always energizing to be surrounded by people who are as excited about working with little people as I am! What is your favorite Illinois AEYC memory?Īttending the Growing Futures conference several years ago is my favorite Illinois AEYC memory. I think it’s important for them to see this is possible – and I also know that so many of my students are in the same boat, so I want them to know that I empathize. I’m also proud that I’ve been able to work, go to grad school, and take on different career roles as I’ve been raising my daughters. We need more high-quality childcare professionals!!! I’m excited to teach a whole new group of students, and to recruit many more. I’m very proud that I’ve been able to re-activate Parkland’s Early Childhood Education Associate’s degree over the past few months, and increase our enrollment. ![]() I’m proud that I was able to figure out this is what I’m supposed to do. At the time I didn’t think this would become my career. If you had told me 20 years ago that I’d be teaching teachers how to work with young children, I would never have believed you! I started in this field because working as a part-time preschool teacher worked well with my daughters’ schedules. What are some professional accomplishments that you are proud of? And I strongly encourage my students to join. I think it’s important to be a member of a community that shares resources and experiences, and advocates for young children and their families. In 2016 I completed my Masters at University of Missouri, and started teaching as an adjunct at Parkland and Millikin University in 2017 (in addition to continuing as a center director.) I’ve been full-time at Parkland since January. I started as an assistant teacher in my children’s preschool in August 2009, took ECE courses at Parkland and became a head teacher, and then center director in 2011. I teach Early Childhood Education courses and serve as a coach/mentor for our students. I am the Program Director for Early Childhood Education at Parkland Community College, in Champaign. “Women, if the soul of the nation is to be saved, I believe that you must become its soul.” ~ Coretta Scott King ![]()
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