Course Goals
I find exploring the policies and systems of early childhood to be motivating as they do shape the foundation of the early childhood field. I understand that policies and systems will impact not only my role as an early childhood professional, but the children and families in my care as well. Early childhood advocacy plays an important role in creating positive social change for young children and families. I have not had experience with constructing policy definitions or policy plans. I believe this course will give me exposure to this important element of becoming a scholarly early childhood professional.
Professional Goals
- Promote Pre-K for PA to gain access to high quality early childhood programs which are publicly funded for Pennsylvania's children.
- Better understand other state's systems for access to high quality early childhood care, and what makes them successful or unsuccessful.
- Create a policy that will impact early childhood services at the state level.
Current Professional Initiative
I am a board member for the Pittsburgh Association for the Education of Young Children, which is my local NAEYC affiliate. A lot of the current focus at PAEYC surrounds Pre-K for PA Ready to Succeed. In Pennsylvania, an unacceptable amount of 3 and 4 year old children have access to high quality early childhood programs that are publicly funded. During this election year in Pennsylvania, I want to be a part of ensuring that Pennsylvania children have access to high quality care and education. The work in this course will help support this important advocacy movement.
