Monday, April 22, 2013

Time Well Spent


I really feel like I have learned so much from this program.  It has made me a better and more effective teacher.  It has also fueled my passion for helping children and their families.  I feel like I can accomplish anything I set my mind to.

The first learning I would pick would be the effects of poverty on the brain.  Until this program I was unaware of the “achievement gaps” between children growing up in poverty and those growing up in more affluent households.  This information has been extremely helpful to me as an educator to students living in poverty.  This knowledge has helped to understand my students and their needs better. 

The 2nd learning I would pick would have to be developing a preschool program.  Since my background is in high school, I truly enjoyed visiting and observing preschools.  I am very excited to start working directly in the early childhood field. 

The 3rd deep felt learning is how important the first 3 years of life are in the development of a child.  This is what inspired me to develop the teen parenting program for my Capstone challenge.  I want to help my teen parents be the best parents they can be in order to help their children have a fair start in life. 

My long term goal is to secure funding and support for my teen parenting academy and child care center.   I believe this is integral to ending the cycle of poverty as a result of teen parenting.  I am very confident that I will be able to achieve this goal.

Even though I have never met you guys, I feel like we are old friends and colleagues.  I wish you all luck in your future endeavors.  If you want to keep in touch you can find me through Roosevelt High School in San Antonio Texas.  All of my contact information can be found at http://tw.neisd.net/webpages/cmaste1/

I can’t believe this journey is almost over!  

6 comments:

Janille said...

Christine,

It sounds as if you know exactly where your passion is going to take you. You truly have been able to apply what you have learned. I wish you ALL the best!

Janille

Kristen said...

Christine,
You have such a passion, and I truly believe you will reach all of your goals! Good luck in all you do!

Darcey said...

Christine,
Iagree that it has been interesting learning how to develop a program. I now have a better understanding of how to run the administrative side of things.
You really have a passion for helping teen parents! Keepup the good work and I'm sure you will achieve your goals and more. Take care.

Belinda said...

Hi Christine,

I have enjoyed learning insights from you, it seems as though you are genuine and passionate about your goals.Good luck on your educational journey!!

tiffany said...

A teen parenting academy would be a wonderful idea! It is sad that there is a need for such a thing, but if we can offer them all the help possible I think teen parents could do much better and raise healthier and happier children.
Great idea, and best of luck in all that you venture into.

Unknown said...

Best wishes for success as you enter the next chapter of your life and move into the world of Early Childhood Education! I can't believe we're almost done!