Farewell

Over the past couple of years, I have learned a lot about the early childhood profession and myself.  I have learned that while the profession has come a long way, there are still some avenues to explore.  Avenues such as access and teacher qualification are examples of areas to explore in effort of strengthen the field.  I have learned that we are all on a personal journey.  Each of us are in different places in our journey and where we go on our journey is up to us.  The last thing that has stuck with me throughout this program is leadership and cooperation.  In order for our field to continue on a positive path, it is imperative that we have great leaders as well as the ability to come together as professionals to speak up and advocate for children and families. 

One long term goal I have is to continue to gain more knowledge about the early childhood field and use that knowledge to develop programs that are beneficial for ALL families. 

I would like to give a big shout to my instructor and colleagues throughout this course!  Your contribution to my learning was priceless!  Good luck with all that you do!!

Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: Internationally

Two international organizations I am interested in is UNICEF, United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, and Academy for Educational Development.  I am interested in UNICEF because of their strategic plan that includes several different focus areas.  I believe this allows the organization to effectively work on several different issues that affect children around the world.  I am interested in UNESCO because of the organizations programs that are offered in an effort for peace and non-violence.  I am interested in the Academy for Educational Development because of its focus on education.

One international position I am interested in is Senior Education Advisor/Director of Education.  The qualifications are as follows:

• Masters in one of the following or related fields: Education, Education Planning, Education Policy, Education Management or other relevant field. Experience with literacy or TESOL programs or a degree in literacy/TESOL preferred;
• Minimum of five (5) years field management experience in Africa, and eight (8) years of experience in development programs. Five years experience in developing countries, conflict-affected;
• Experience and facility with rapidly changing project designs;
• Preparation of work plans, budgets and other key project documents. Experience with Do No Harm programming a plus;
• Knowledge and practical experience developing standards for assessment systems, including for student learning outcomes, teacher performance, and school performance;
• Knowledge of USAID project management, evaluation procedures and standards, and requirements;
• Knowledge of education policy issues that affect student learning;
• Knowledge of all technical and management aspects required to develop reliable and meaningful assessment tools that can inform teacher practice as well as policy direction;
• Must be able to read, write, and speak fluent English;
• Sensitivity to cultural diversity and understanding of the political, contextual, and ethical issues in South Sudan;
• Articulate and professional and able to communicate in a clear, positive fashion with clients and staff.