Professional Hopes and Goals

 

Looking back over the past 8 weeks, I realize how much I have learned about myself on a professional and personal level. This course has taught me to reflect on who I am, my own identities, and the teacher I hope to be for my students and their families.

One hope I have when I think about working with children and families who come from diverse backgrounds is that I hope to value, appreciate, and respect who they are, their identities, and their culture. I want to get to know my students and their families and connect with them. People deserve to be respected and treated with dignity. I hope my students and their families will know I value and respect them.

One goal that I want to set for the early childhood field related to issues of diversity, equity, and social justice is that early childhood professionals empower students, families, and others. Children are learning what they see and hear. I want the early childhood profession to build a foundation where children learn about diversity, social justice, and equity. This means we need to help students ask questions and participate in dialogue about these issues. If we can help children learn at an early age, then they are going to be a part of the change we hope to see in others. They are going to learn the importance of valuing others and they are going to stand up when injustice occurs.

I would like to thank my colleagues for your insights, personal experiences, and knowledge throughout this course. You all have helped me to learn about diversity, equity, and social justice from a personal and professional level. I have learned about the person I am and the teacher I hope to be for my students and their families. I appreciate all your support and guidance along my journey. I wish you all the best!