The many roles of a program director

While reading through chapter to of the second chapter of " the visionary director" my eyes where really opened my eyes to all the work that directors of programs have to do. I never stopped to think about the extent of the work done by directors. Their job not only requires them to interact and direct every aspect of the program from hiring to curriculum. Reading through this chapter has shed a new light on the way I see administration and I now realize the heavy load that they carry.

Are You a Risk Taker?

When it comes to being a risk taker I think I can say that is kinda what I like to do whether its in the classroom or at home during my daily life I can say I am a risk taker. As far as my program goes I am satisfied and have no problems with it but as far as teaching as a profession goes I would say that I am far from pleased. For one the support and funding we receive is mediocre at best and two is we are definitely not paid a wage worthy of the service we provide. I think that it is time that society wakes up and realizes the importance of early childhood education. I would say that I fall under the category of willing to challenge the status quo for something that I truly believe needs changing. I am willing to advocate and stick my necks out if I feel that it will help children receive everything that they could possibly need to make their educational experiences here in the program meaningful.

A lose lose situation, How do we gain resources?

If you look back on the history of teaching as a profession , you would see that teaching was a profession started by women for women. So it is no surprise that  the field is dominated by females, because of this I feel through out the course of history teachers and students alike have never fully experienced support and resources like other departments. In fact it seems like whenever a budget cut needs to be made the first place they look is education. So naturally we as teachers are not going to explain that are inadequate funding and support is leading to providing children with sub par early education in fear that what little support is given will be taken away. So how do you advocate for funds for the children without making our program look sub par in the process.

How important is it to have a vision?

When it comes to early childhood education it is important to have a personal vision and also a common vision in which staff views the children's learning experience. The reading talks about the importance of self reflection and determining your vision and mission statement for your classroom. I also think that it is important for you to examine your reasons for becoming a teacher and what it is that you want to accomplish because regardless of what you do in life if you wander blindly you will not be successful. For me the reason that I am getting into early childhood education is because over the past five years while working in the special education department I have had the opportunity to work with children of all ages. During this time I have seen the result of early intervention and the lack there of. These experiences have really shaped my vision and mission in a sense that I have a real conviction to work in early child hood to provide meaningful and appropriate experiences for young children.

              The Socratic Method is a method of inquiry between people based on asking questions to stimulate critical thinking about a certain rule or norm. It challenges norms by disputing its weaknesses and critiquing its every shortcoming. It is important to critically analyze and asses without the influences of personal bias or pride.