PROFESSIONAL HOPES AND GOALS

In working with children and families who come from diverse backgrounds, I hope to be able to communicate more effectively—taking into account the deeper insights that I now have regarding cultural diversity, equitable practice, and social justice.  One goal that I would like to set for the early childhood field related to issues of diversity, equity, and social justice is to advocate programming and curriculum that effectively accommodate cultural differences, and to educate teachers on anti-bias practices in all learning environments.

Eight weeks of study about diversity, equity and social justice has stretched me in ways I never imagined could take place in the life of a middle-aged woman.  Pre-eight weeks I had believed that most of the tools and ideas that an adult utilized in their day to day life were derived from their childhood and teenage experiences.  My views were drastically changed as I saw the various levels of my core beliefs tested, shifted, and altered in a way that has strengthened me immensely by adding some of the most important tools that I will ever need to utilize in my life as an adult.  I am grateful to all of my colleagues who have helped me to become a more cognizant individual in regards to recognizing the importance of equitable practice and social justice for all.