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.