Page 72 - Gateways for Early Educators

Gateways for Early Educators
Challenges
Throughout the program, participants have described some of the personal challenges they have faced in being able to achieve their own personal goals. These challenges have ranged from health challenges to financial and lacking some fundamental skills (e.g. mastery of the English language, computer skills, etc.). However, the theme that has consistently arisen in terms of a challenge early childhood educators have faces in being able to accomplish their professional development goals has been time.
 Time--Coaching participants have expressed that making time for professional development and growth has been difficult given the multiple obligations (work, school, professional development) and limited time that they have. Providers expressed challenges they faced in making time to receive the coaching, time to attend trainings, and in time to implement what they have learned through their professional development. In addition, many of the early childhood educators served by the Gateways Program have non-traditional business hours (e.g. evenings and weekends) or did not have staff available to step in during business hours so that the participant could take part in professional development. However, as demonstrated as recently as during the focus groups conducted during the 2015-2016 program year, participants have described some of the resolutions they have worked on with their coaches in order to make the professional development and growth a realization.
2016
Gateways Program over the Years: The Participant Experience
PY 2011-2012
“I have about 8 or 9 permits and most have already submitted those permits. [Participants] had the courses, but never knew how to get the permits. Some are even applying for Master Teacher Permits. It was doable but they didn’t realize it.”
~ Gateways Coach
PY 2012-2013
“[Some new things I learned are] when we talk to parents, start talking about the positive. Write notes of the observations we made to each children. Make the parent know we are not judging instead we want to help.”
~ Gateways Training Participant
PY 2013-2014
“With the support and guidance of my coach, I have become more confident, dedicated to provide quality care. My program is rated 5 stars on Yelp. Parents and providers come to me for help and guidance. I have become a strong leader in my community.”
~ Gateways Coaching Participant
PY 2014-2015
“[My coach] helped me set goals and provided guidance when I asked for assistance. She made observations during visits and immediately provided feedback on how to address issues that were of concern by either herself or me. She made me aware of the resources available in the library as well as weekend workshops when I was not receiving fliers in the mail.” ~Gateways Coaching Participant
PY 2015-2016
“I succeeded in taking classes, even in English. I improved my English in writing and reading. I received Child Development classes. I
was able to get my transcript to apply for a Credential, which is currently in progress. And I found a permanent job, currently I work in a children's garden. I am so very grateful and satisfied with everything I've accomplished with your support.” ~Gateways Coaching Participant
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