Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/in-search-of-cooperative-teaching-how-the-stages-of-staff-development-affect-program-quality/5024386/
Research points to many different elements that create a quality early childhood program. We know that the education of the teacher makes a difference in the outcomes for young children. Other characteristics of an effective teacher are experience, attitude, creativity, and nurturing (Colker, 2008.) Each teacher needs to possess a plethora of skills to motivate children. They need to know how to observe children, assess their needs and interests, and help them move to the next developmental level in all domains.
However, one key to program excellence that is rarely mentioned lies with the director. How the head orchestrates staff teamwork can make the difference between a good program and an excellent program (Bloom, Hentschel & Bella, 2013).
Let’s look at five different directors and how they work with their staffs.
Look at this director’s instructions to a new staff member:
Director 1: Anne, I see you have more experience than many of our teachers. I really want you to join our staff, so I will pay you more than the other teachers. You may never tell them. All have been instructed not to ask other teachers how much they are paid. Even if they question you, this must remain a secret between ...