It's almost
surreal...I've spent the last 18+ months thinking that I would never finish
this master's program at Walden. There have been many challenges along the way,
both personally and professionally. There were many times where I just wanted
to quit, because it just seemed too hard. But with support from my family,
friends, and colleagues- both at Walden and in the workplace, I persevered.
This program has taught me many things about myself and about the early
childhood field. Here are some of the thing I have learned:
v Building
relationships is the key to success. This includes the relationships among
children, families, teachers, colleagues, professional organizations, community
organizations, politicians and so on. The stronger your network of
relationships, the more support you have for yourself and for the children and
families that depend on you for high quality programs and experiences.
v Get to know your
local and state politicians. Building a relationship with them and getting them
to see the whole picture when it comes to helping support children and families
can make all the difference.
v Don't be afraid of
research. Yes, reading research articles can be intimidating, with all of the
statistical information and confusing language. But once you learn to read and
interpret current research, you can use it to support your position to improve
conditions for children and families everywhere.
v Advocate, Advocate,
Advocate. As they say, the squeaky wheel gets the grease. When you believe in
something and have the data to back it up, don't stand quietly on the
sidelines. All it takes is for someone to care about an issue and to speak on
it passionately to get others to join the mission. Sonia Johnson, American
Feminist activist and writer said it well when she said that "We must
remember that one determined person can make a significant difference and that
a small group of determined people can change the course of history." So
if you see something you don't feel is right, speak up, and change history!
v Never underestimate
the value of reflection and self examination. Sometimes a problem begins with
you and your views, and not with others. Always stop and think about what you
think about a problem or issue and about the reasons why you think that way.
Ask yourself, am I showing bias? If so, why? What can I do to change my
thinking?
My long term goal is
to continue to engage in continuous self reflection so that I can always
improve my teaching. I would like to ensure that every child and family sees
their unique identity reflected in the classroom environment, creating a sense
of belonging and feeling of acceptance.
I am grateful for the
support and feedback I have received from my colleagues at Walden and from my
dedicated instructors. Your comments, opposing viewpoints, constructive criticism,
and agreements have given me valuable information about when I need to
reexamine things or when I am on the right track. Thank you all for everything,
and I wish everyone continued success in their future endeavors. Anyone wishing
to remain in contact is welcome to contact me at celesteguinazu@gmail.com. I
look forward to working with any of my Walden colleagues on future projects, so
that we may make this world a better place for children and families.
