Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community

The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) has been dedicated, for many years, to ensuring the youngest members of our society or given what they need to be successful.  NAEYC was chosen as one of my national organizations because of its dedication not only to children, but also to the professionals in the field.  Another national organization I’m interested in because of its focus on the professional development of early childhood educators is the CDA council.  The third organization I’m interested in is the National Head Start Association because of its focus on working with children and their families living in poverty.

Currently Bright Horizons has an Executive Director position open in Milpitas, California.  Qualifications includes:  

·       BA, Masters preferred

·       5 years as a Director of a licensed childcare

·       Meet CA licensing requirements for a Director  

·       Well versed in NAEYC accreditation center

Harlem Children’s Zone Education Director Singleton Gems

·       Masters

·       Supervisory experience

·       3-5 years teaching experience

·       New York teaching certificate

·       Knowledge of early childhood education funding sources and performance standards

Exploring roles in the Early Childhood Community

One local organization that appeals to me is the Douglas and Sarpy County Learning Communities.  I am interested in this organization because of its goals of working with children living in poverty and implementing programs to give children an opportunity at a level playing field.  The organization understands the importance of early childhood education and is dedicated to the families they serve, as well as, the professional development of those who work with them.  A local community of practice is the Early Childhood Consortium of the Omaha Area or ECCOA.  ECCOA helps to strengthen the early childhood workforce by providing trainings.  Meetings for early childhood professionals to come together and talk about issue, rather national or local, are also provided.  Educare is another local organization that appeals to me.  Educare provides services through Early Head Start and Head Start.  Educare has provided outcomes for our community that proves the value of quality early childhood education. 

There are not many positions currently available in the early childhood field where I reside.  However there is a position with Step Up to Quality, an Early Childhood Quality Rating and Improvement System.  The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in early childhood and 3 years of experience.