Assignment task:
Please Post Each Discussion Separately
Respond to at least two of your peers' posts by replying why you agree and then provide suggestions for other important expectations that your peers could add to their outlines. Discuss how reflecting on these expectations and journeys together can support the continuing efforts of educators to meet the needs of all learners in their classroom or school. Your responses to your classmates should be at least 200 words in length.
Discussion 1 (Shalita):
My leadership journey in early childhood education began with a deep passion for fostering nurturing learning environments for young children when I became a teen mom. Initially, I worked directly with children, which gave me valuable insights into their needs and developmental milestones. As I progressed, I transitioned into roles that involved training and mentoring other educators, which expanded my impact and allowed me to advocate for best practices and inclusive approaches. My leadership journey has been characterized by a commitment to creating equitable learning opportunities, supporting professional growth among peers, and continuously seeking ways to innovate and improve early childhood education to better serve diverse communities.
Early Childhood Education (ECE) leaders are expected to cultivate a supportive and inclusive community of learners by fostering a positive and collaborative environment where both children and educators feel valued and engaged. This involves creating a safe and stimulating space for exploration and growth, implementing developmentally appropriate curricula, and encouraging open communication among all stakeholders. Leaders should model and promote respectful interactions, provide ongoing professional development opportunities, and ensure that practices are culturally responsive and equitable. Additionally, ECE leaders must actively involve families and the wider community in the educational process, recognizing their vital role in supporting and enhancing the learning experience.
Reflecting on my leadership journey compared to my expectations, I find that I am largely meeting my goals of fostering a collaborative and inclusive community in early childhood education. I have effectively created supportive learning environments and engaged in professional development. However, there is always room for improvement, particularly in ensuring that all practices are consistently equitable and in expanding family and community involvement. Moving forward, I aim to strengthen these areas by implementing more targeted strategies for inclusivity and actively seeking feedback from families and colleagues to better address their needs and perspectives.
Respond to at least two of your peers' posts by replying why you agree and then provide suggestions for other important expectations that your peers could add to their outlines. Discuss how reflecting on these expectations and journeys together can support the continuing efforts of educators to meet the needs of all learners in their classroom or school. Your responses to your classmates should be at least 200 words in length.
Discussion 2 (Roberta)
My professional trajectory has been impressive throughout my experience as an early childhood educator and now leader. I've mastered working in all teaching positions, from an aide to a lead, which has equipped me with the tools to be in a leadership position. My definition of a leader is someone who can positively impact, influence, and foster the developmental growth of children and educators. As an assistant director, I can build trusting and positive relationships with the children, families, and staff. I serve as the liaison between educators and parents by providing effective communication conducive to the children's well-being. I am committed to improving my leadership knowledge and skills through continuous training and professional development.
Outline the expectations of ECE leaders in creating a community of learners. To support the organization's vision and mission, I must adhere to policies, procedures, and guidelines and be willing to accept accountability, self-reflect, and make the necessary changes to improve as a leader. I am expected to support the culture of inclusivity and diversity by advocating for and supporting the individual needs of children, families, and educators. Heikkinen et al. (2022) state, "In addition, a community of practice is perceived as having the ability to change educational leadership practices and the ways leaders work inside a formal organization as it promotes more flexible structures and encourages employee-leader cooperation."
Compare your expectations to your leadership journey. Are you meeting your expectations? If not, what changes need to occur moving forward?
In contrast to my expectations for my leadership journey, I have yet to meet all expectations as I am new in my leadership role. The changes that are actively in progress are training on my leadership role and responsibilities. However, I have allowed myself to holistically connect with the staff, children, and families. Doing so creates an open and positive respect for one another. I can address challenges and issues by understanding the individual needs of the staff, children, and families and make sound, unbiased decisions for the benefit of said parties. Overall, what's expected of me as a leader and the goals I have set for myself would allow me to support the overall organization's success.
Reference
Heikkinen, K.-M., Ahtiainen, R., & Fonsén, E. (2022). Perspectives on Leadership in Early Childhood Education and Care Centers Through Community of Practice. Sage Open, 12(2).