Professional Hopes and Goals

After eight weeks of study, we come to the end of Perspectives on Diversity and Equity.  We have learned about the definitions of culture, diversity, and microaggressions.  I have been surprised at my own revelations and have learned from the perspectives of my colleagues.  My hope is that I take what I have learned here and apply to my work with children, families, and staff.  As we see the demographics in our community change with the influx of new immigrants from numerous different countries, we need to be prepared to support them in navigating the waters of education.  My role as a professional is to lead and coach others in ways to work with all families and children and I hope that some of the information I have gathered in this course will transfer to my daily interactions and training with staff.

One goal for our early childhood field is to incorporate more diversity training and education in the higher education institutions.  It is so important that new professionals coming in to teach in our classrooms know how to interact with families from all backgrounds and cultures.  I think in my undergraduate program there was one class on diversity.  If we start with the "front line", we can begin to ensure that children and families are well supported.  Once they enter the workforce, it is more difficult to find time for those trainings because they are focused on planning environments and curriculum.

I would like to say thank you to all of my colleagues.  I think this course provided all of us with great insight and discussions about difficult topics and issues.  I appreciate all of your candid responses and posts and I look forward to learning more from you in future courses.  Have a wonderful holiday season and happy new year!

Sincerely,
Katherine

P.S.  Here is the "covenant" by Raffi that the last video referenced.  I think it is beautiful!
We find these joys to be self evident: That all children are created whole, endowed with innate intelligence, with dignity and wonder, worthy of respect. The embodiment of life, liberty and happiness, children are original blessings, here to learn their own song. Every girl and boy is entitled to love, to dream and belong to a loving “village.” And to pursue a life of purpose.
We affirm our duty to nourish and nurture the young, to honour their caring ideals as the heart of being human. To recognize the early years as the foundation of life, and to cherish the contribution of young children to human evolution.
We commit ourselves to peaceful ways and vow to keep from harm or neglect these, our most vulnerable citizens. As guardians of their prosperity we honour the bountiful Earth whose diversity sustains us. Thus we pledge our love for generations to come.
From http://www.raffinews.com/child-honouring/covenant-principles