Entering The Field Of Child Care

My journey into the field of early childhood education began in 2008 when I was just 19 years old. As a new single mother, I faced the daunting challenge of providing for my daughter while navigating the complexities of young adulthood. Dropping out of college, I took a job as an aide in an infant room, earning $7.50 an hour. Despite the modest pay and the demanding nature of the work, I was determined to create a better future for myself and my daughter.

Working with infants, I discovered a deep fulfillment in nurturing young minds and supporting their developmental milestones. This newfound passion led me to enroll in a Child Development Associate (CDA) program sponsored by Point Park University and held at Shady Lane School. The program’s comprehensive curriculum and hands-on approach solidified my commitment to the field. Upon completing my CDA, I knew that early childhood education was my true calling.

commitment to academic and professional growth.

My Educator Journey

My career trajectory took a significant turn as I moved from directly educating young children to supporting and advocating for early childhood professionals. My first major role was as a center director, where I managed the daily operations of an early childhood education center. This position allowed me to understand the administrative and leadership aspects of early childhood education, further broadening my perspective.

My leadership skills and passion for the field led me to a policy-focused role at Trying Together, where I served as the Assistant Director of Policy and Practice. In this capacity, I advocated for equitable, accessible, and affordable high-quality early childhood experiences at local, state, and federal levels. I championed the importance of investing in early childhood education, not just for the benefit of children, but also to support the professionals dedicated to this crucial work.

Leading The Charge For Educators

In 2021, I had the incredible opportunity to be a TedX speaker, where I presented “Early Childhood Educators: A Workforce Behind a Workforce.” The following year, I was honored to be the T.E.A.C.H. CDA Graduation Keynote Speaker. During my time at Trying Together, I created the Statewide Provider Advisory Board, an advocacy group of early childhood professionals selected from each county across the state to advocate for early childhood education. I was also selected as a Professional Development Specialist for the Council of Professional Recognition in Washington, D.C.

A First

Today, I am proud to be the youngest and the first African American woman to serve as the Executive Director of the historic Shady Lane School, founded by Phil Halen, Fred Rogers, and Margaret McFarland. Together, Phil, Fred, and Margaret collaborated to create an environment where the emotional, social, and developmental needs of all young children are prioritized. This leadership role has allowed me to implement my vision for high-quality early childhood education and to continue my advocacy efforts from within a respected educational institution. At Shady Lane School, I focus on fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for both children and educators. I am dedicated to discovering innovative ways to increase equitable opportunities and to partnering with the community to support the holistic development of children.

Our community is built around building each other up, and that starts with access to quality education for our children. I believe that children deserve a nurturing and supportive educational journey that recognizes their individuality, respects their cultural identity, and empowers them to reach their full potential. I advocate for access to learning environments from birth that understand the dynamics of our history and build upon each child’s unique gifts while giving families a home to thrive and receive support. While serving as the Executive Director at Shady Lane School, I have created an environment that is entrenched in the community. Serving all communities and creating equity and giving access to high-quality education are at the forefront of my community work.

Through my advocacy and work in the field, I have been fortunate to serve on several advisory committees and boards. I am a Professor at Westmoreland Community College, building the next generation of teachers, and a PQAS certified instructor. I have been appointed to serve on PACCA’s T.E.A.C.H. advisory committee and the PA State Advisory Council (SAC) for Early Education and Care – Professional Development Subcommittee. Additionally, I serve on Governor Shapiro’s & Pennsylvania’s Early Learning Investment Commission’s Innovation Team to design innovative business ideas to elevate the early childhood sector.

Reflecting on my journey, I realize how influential the work of early childhood education has been on my life and my understanding of human development and the value of community. The field of early childhood education has shown me the profound impact that nurturing care and quality education can have on the developmental trajectory of young children. This understanding has deepened my appreciation for the early years as a critical period for cognitive, social, and emotional development.

Building In Community

My personal and professional experiences have also reinforced the importance of community in supporting the growth and well-being of children and families. The sense of community within early childhood settings provides a strong foundation for children to explore, learn, and thrive. It also offers essential support for families, creating a network of care and resources that contribute to the holistic development of each child. Without the support of early childhood professionals throughout my own life experiences, I would’ve never made it this far. 

As I continue my journey in the field of early childhood education, I am committed to advocating for policies and practices that promote equity, accessibility, and high-quality education for all children. I believe that every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, and that strong early childhood education programs are key to achieving this goal. My work is driven by the belief that by investing in our youngest learners and supporting the educators who guide them, we can build stronger, more inclusive communities for the future.

In my current role, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of early childhood education. It has not only shaped my career but has also given me a profound sense of purpose. The smiles of children as they discover new things, the gratitude of parents who see their children in a safe and loving environment, and the dedication of educators who work tirelessly to provide the best learning experiences—these are the moments that inspire me every day. 

To Future Educators

I urge you to follow your passion for supporting the children and families in your community. Your dedication to becoming educators will make a lifelong impact on our society. Never give up, as the work of an early childhood educator is a responsibility of the highest order and often comes with immense pressure. However, the outcomes of your work are of the highest moral capacity. Advocate and serve as a voice for children and families, and for yourselves. Elevate the profession and inform society of the profound importance of early childhood education. Lastly, NEVER feel alone; you are a pillar of the community, and there are stakeholders alongside you to uphold you and your valuable work. Through collaboration, innovation, and unwavering commitment, you will make a lasting impact on the lives of children, families, and educators, fostering a future that continues to center access to high-quality early learning practices, so one day all children will experience opportunities that positively support their learning journeys. Your commitment and perseverance will create a better future for all.