EDSD 7084 Evaluating and Supporting Early Childhood Programs

Program quality, like child development, is complex and multidimensional. —Epstein, A. page 3

During this course I will learn how to be a more proficient educator by looking into best practices for young children and providing developmentally appropriate experiences. I will be an advocate of program evaluation and reaching the highest level based on certain criteria. I am currently in a school that has recently undergone National Association for the Education of Young Children accreditation. This process was extensive with multiple steps and an abundance of input from different stakeholders. During this year long process, we worked together as a team to meet the needs of our students and when the committee came to review our school they were amazed by the hard work and dedication that we provide to our students every day.

Research shows a direct correlation between high-quality early learning and children's positive long-term outcomes in life, including increased educational attainment, healthier lifestyles, and more successful careers. NAEYC Accreditation helps teachers and other staff at early learning programs develop a shared understanding and commitment to quality. The accreditation process leads to increased staff morale, greater staff retention, and a more positive, energetic work atmosphere overall—enabling centers to provide a solid foundation for all children's success in life.

NAEYC Accreditation helps families recognize quality early learning programs and feel comfortable knowing that their children are receiving a high-quality, research-based education that will prepare them for future success (NAEYC, 2018).

By going through this accreditation process, I know the impact that program evaluation has on my school and my personal philosophy of teaching young children. I want to be a part of making education better and being held accountable by taking part in program evaluations. Every day I want to be able to touch a child and know that I made a difference. I want my students to feel success and know that they have accomplished his or her learning goals. When they meet standards and reach their personal goals- I feel rewarded and successful. I believe that children need to be provided with developmentally/age appropriate, hands-on learning activities. I also believe they learn through play and manipulation. My beliefs are incorporated daily in my classroom. Each child has their own personal learning goal and we strive everyday day towards meeting or exceeding it. In my classroom, I provide a variety of ways for learning because no two students are the same. I want my students to feel successful in their learning by providing the tools that each individual needs. Every day my students are engaged in hands-on experiences. This is helping to form a foundation for learning.

My personal goal every day is to provide a positive, loving, and nurturing learning environment for my children so that they will have an abundance of lifelong experiences.


Overview of the Accreditation Process https://www.naeyc.org/accreditation/early-learning/interested