When I Reflect About My Collegial, Professional Learning Community

The consequences of being part of a collaborative learning community include:
1. Sharing information and becoming a more knowledgeable professional.
2. Building a network of peers that share similar goals and skills.
3. Becoming an advocate or member of a coalition.

As an educator, I will use the information that I have learned in this course to become an advocate for children and families in Head Start.  I understand that learning how systems impact programs will make it easier for me to help create effective policies and programs.

I would like to personally thank all of my fellow scholars for participating in my blog during this course.  I have enjoyed working with all of you.

My Hypothetical Family Situation

My family consists of a single mother with two children.  The family is African American, and come from a low-socioeconomic background.  The mother works two jobs and provides for both children.  One of the mother's job is a full time day job and a part-time job in the evenings.  During the evenings, the grandmother watches the children.  One child is in Kindergarten, and the oldest child is in the second grade.  As a result, a K-12 program would be beneficial to the family.  My goal is to provide a system that addresses the needs of this family.

Please provide some feedback or suggestions on ways to help this family.

The Political Will to Improve Early Childhood Systems

This week, I had to the opportunity to study other types of models and systems.  After reviewing student posts, I understand how models relate to the effectiveness of programs.  This information is important to advocates because it can help to develop programs that are more efficient and effective.  Advocates can use research and program information to encourage policy makers to make the necessary changes to improve education.

I researched the U.S. Department of Education for K-12.  I learned that a variety of programs are in place to help improve education and learning across the states.  I can use the information and research provided on this site to help develop policies and to influence policy changes.  Overall, I realize that teachers have to be a voice and advocates for children.  Therefore, policy creation is supported by advocacy.

Parent, Family, and Community Engagement

I enjoyed hearing the Parent and Family Stories.  These stories showed the benefit of Head Start and early childhood education to families.  The parents discussed the benefits of early childhood education to the children and how parents can be involved.  Policy makers and advocates need to hear these stories to understand the importance of Head Start and early childhood education.  These stories are examples of how families benefit from Head Start; therefore, the information can be used to support funding increases for Head Start.

As an early childhood educator, I believe that parents should be actively involved in early childhood education.  Parents have the opportunity to work with teachers to help their children.  In our school, we encourage parent participation.  When parents are actively involved in their children's education, children are more productive.  Therefore, parental involvement is essential to Head Start.

"Quality Programs for All Children"

The public opinion is fairly good for quality early childhood education.  The problem is that there is not enough funding for early childhood programs.  Head Start is needed to provide disadvantaged children with a foundation for education.  These children perform better later in school if they have access to quality programs.  However, the lack of funding shows that a greater focus has to be placed on the benefits of early childhood education programs. 

My hope for Head Start is to increase funding for the Head Start program.  Children need Head Start to help develop their educational skills and provide nutrition.  A change in public opinion will help get the needed revenues and resources to provide more access to Head Start.  The key is to provide information and research showing the benefits of Head Start.  Once funding increases, more families will have access to Head Start.

What Resonates With You About Early Childhood Public Policy and Advocacy

Why did you choose this specialization?

I have chosen to specialize in advocacy for public policy because I believe that early childhood education needs more educators with an understanding of policies and systems.

 

Why are advocates essential in the early childhood field?

Advocates are essential in early childhood education because advocates help create positive change for children.  Advocates also work to create policies to benefit children and families.  Overall, advocates work to ensure that all children have fair access to a quality education.

 

What do you hope to learn about public policy and advocacy?

I want to learn more about developing policies and creating change in current policies.  I also want to become a more involved advocate in my field.  Therefore, I hope to learn more about working with other agencies, policy makers, and advocates to help create change.

Profile of a Volunteer

One of the most well known volunteer agencies in my area is AmeriCorp.  Larry Webster works with AmeriCorp and volunteers in the community to assist different organizations.  One of his strengths is that he brings in resources from other agencies to help local community programs.  Larry also works to get others to work as volunteers.  Based on my assessment of Mr. Webster, I have learned that volunteers must be willing to donate their time and resources to assist an organization or program that they believe in.  Volunteers must also be willing to work hard and dedicate a portion of their time to the community.  I have volunteered to work with churches and nonprofit organizations in the community.  My experiences have helped me to understand the power of giving back and the benefit of volunteer workers.