Friday, July 26, 2013

Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: National/Federal Level


There were three organizations that appealed to me in the community of practice beginning with OMEP a nonprofit advocacy program that works locally, nationally, and internationally to promote the health, development, and education of the world’s children and families.  The OMEP is known for its advocacy for high quality early childhood education for children everywhere and also the education of professionals and others relating to children, families and early education.  This organization is currently working with children who were displaced in New Orleans, children from Haiti and the floods, and making caps for children with cancer in the USA.  This organization is an excellent example of community action and making a difference in children and family’s lives.

The next organization I chose was of course NAEYC and I chose this because of their extensive knowledge and goals in early childhood and their professional development.  NAEYC is known for its vibrant networks locally, state, and regional affiliates.  I am a proud member of NAEYC and I love their magazine. 


The last organization I chose was the National Education Association.  I chose this particular organization because of their work in advocating high quality early childhood education.  They believe the principle in which early childhood was founded on that it is common sense to invest in your children the early years.  The National Education Association is known for the Abecedarian Project which shows results of children attending quality preschool program and how they are less likely to repeat grades, need special education, or get into trouble with the law in the future.  This organization is an excellent resource for early childhood professionals and the advocacy for all children.
I looked for two jobs this week and have applied for on but will apply for the other one this weekend.  The first job I applied for over three weeks ago and it for the training and curriculum specialist at my job.  This position only requires a bachelor’s degree in ece.  This job is one of my goals when I graduate. However, I have been told it was already filled by someone but, they had to open the job for legal reasons.

The next job is being on the accreditation team for Headquarters of Marine Corp.  It only requires a bachelor’s degree but also wants three years of experience working in DOD child development centers.  I believe I have a very good shot at this job.  However, it is in Quantico, VA and about 4 hours from my present home.  I am going to apply and see what they say and then let God lead me from there. 

 

3 comments:


  1. Hi Michele

    Your first agency sounded interesting. Does OMEP refer to the World Organization for Early Childhood Education (http://omepusa.fatcow.com/omep/)? I went to this website when I did a search for the acronym you provided and was impressed by the breadth of projects they are tackling. I was also impressed that in their membership section that they not only say that you can join a local chapter but that they encourage you to start your own if there is not one in your area. Definitely an organization of self-actualizing individuals!

    Thanks for sharing.
    Carolyn

    Reference

    OMEP USA. (2010). Member benefits. Retrieved from http://omepusa.fatcow.com/omep/MemberBenefits.html

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  2. Hi Michele,
    I checked out the NEA as well and thought that the High Scope Perry Preschool study was interesting. The adults at age 40 who participated in the program had a better outcome than those who did not. I really think that quality preschool programs are a necessity for children because without them, the struggles they might face in their futures could be eliminated.
    Great post!
    Lori
    Reference:
    HighScope Perry Preschool Study. Retrieved from http://www.highscope.org/Content.asp?ContentId=219.

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  3. Michele,
    When I was looking for jobs, I looked at employment within the Department of Defense. I think there are true advantages as well as challenges, which are unique to working for the government. Working for the accreditation team would give you opportunities to see a variety of programs. From day care, to special education, to school programs. I wish you luck on your journey for professional fulfillment. Knowing you throughout this Master's program leads me to believe that you would be great in any job which involved concern for education and welfare of young children.

    Millie

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