Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/raising-the-bar-director-credentialing-initiatives-flourish-across-the-nation/5014214/
Early childhood and after-school program administrator credentialing initiatives are rapidly developing across the nation (Rogers, 2000). This trend is the result of a growing recognition that the physical, socio-emotional, and intellectual needs of many children are not being adequately met in the United States (Wheelock College Institute for Leadership and Career Initiatives, 2001). Developing skilled and knowledgable leaders among those who care for and educate young children is a critical strategy for improving the quality of child care while also meeting the professional development needs of program administrators.Clarifying Terms
What is a director credential and who are the men and women to whom the term applies? According to Wheelock College Institute for Leadership and Career Initiatives, the term "director" refers to a variety of titles used by early childhood and school-age programs to describe the role of director, including, but not limited to: program director, site supervisor, manager, executive director, or administrator. The State of Florida applies the term to the person who is responsible for the day-to-day operation, supervision and administration of the center (Florida Children's Forum, 2001). These definitions do not preclude others such as owners, assistant directors, curriculum specialists, teachers, or family child care providers from seeking a credential, ...