Who are you?

I am an event planner turned educator and lifelong advocate for early childhood education.

 

What is the nature of your job?

During the day, I am a kindergarten teacher at a CETA (Changing Education Through the Arts) school where I incorporate all art forms into my teaching. We sing, dance, draw, and do a lot of movement during the day! I nurture, support, and teach my students to advocate for themselves and become independent. My role as a kindergarten teacher is to help my students love learning and to stay curious and excited about the world around them. 

 

In the evening, I am the Treasurer of the DCAEYC board. After three years of service, my term is ending. My experience on the board has been impactful to my growth in the field of education. As the financial officer of the organization, I was in charge of maintaining the financial records, creating the annual budget, and reviewing financial policies and procedures. 

 

What interests/concerns drew you to early childhood work?

I'm a career switcher because I find early childhood education so meaningful for children. It is a child’s first impression of school and so many foundational lessons are learned during this time. I also noticed a lack of equity in early childhood education which is fundamental for future learning. Not all children are given access to a quality experience and many families are not informed of the wonderful resources that can shape and support young children. As an early childhood educator and member of the DCAEYC board, I will continue to be persistent and communicative in supporting children and their families.

 

Wishes for the future of children...

My wish is that all children, regardless of their socio-economic status, are given a high-quality learning experience where they are nurtured, loved, and provided opportunities that spark their creativity and love of learning.

 

What do you do when you are not working?

During these times, we all have to be creative on what we're allowed to do outside of work. Because of this, I have picked up some new hobbies like painting and baking! I also love to run, read books, and spend a lot of time spoiling my niece.