Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/looking-back-looking-forward/5026849/
Our field is in good hands.
That was my first thought as I read through the insightful articles included in this special issue on the future of early care and education. Recently, I have heard so many voices predicting frightful outcomes for this profession I have loved so long and so deeply. And yet, I think back 40 years ago to my first experience as an ECE director and the dire predictions that were hurled at me then.
“Forty percent of your staff will leave each year.”
“Dealing with parents will be a nightmare.”
“No one will respect your work.”
My first decision as director was to reject that pessimism. And because I did, I began reaching out to community members, forming an advisory board, finding my courage, asking for help from university professors and business people I did not know, making the case that quality for our youngest citizens is everyone’s business.
Board members wrote grants in support of helpful initiatives, and taught me how to do so myself. Business executives lent expertise. A community cultural center partnered with our program to start a scholarship fund for children from low income families.
I vowed that all staff would feel valued and respected each day. I promised myself ...