Early Childhood Education (ECE)
As a teacher, you could influence young lives. You could also support the work of a classroom teacher as a counselor, librarian, or principal. You could coach sports activities or lead community classes. The Early Childhood Education pathway provides students with hands-on experience working with preschool students in the on-site laboratory (Kiddie Learners Preschool). Students will gain their CPR/First Aid Certifications, Fire Safety Certifications, and can attain their CDA (Child Development Associate). Also, some colleges and universities articulate the ECE courses for college credit. All students will take a nationally recognized assessment displaying his/her knowledge of Early Childhood Education basic care.
Courses required for pathway completion: ECE I; ECE II; ECE III; ECE Practicum
Our program seeks high school students who have the desire to pursue a career in education or a field involving children. Each day the high school students write lesson plans, prepare nutritious snacks, and run the Monroe Kiddie Canes Preschool Program. To be accepted into the Introduction to Early Childhood Education, a student needs to complete an application and two teacher recommendations.
Purpose and Goals
To provide a laboratory for high school students who have a genuine interest in children and are dedicated to helping educate preschoolers with the best resources available.
To provide an environment that will enrich the growth and development of the preschool children involved. This includes the child’s physical-motor, intellectual-cognitive, and personal-social-emotional development.
Philosophy of the Monroe High School ECE Program
We believe that children learn by doing. Through active interaction with their environment, children make observations and learn concepts, continually adding pieces ofinformation to what they already know. Using developmentally appropriate practices as established by the National Association forthe Education of Young Children (NAEYC), we provide a positive, nurturing environment which encourages children to become enthusiastic, lifelong learners. Recognizing that children develop socially, intellectually, emotionally, physically, and morally in predictable stages, we seek to meet the child on his or her level and move forward. Discovery, exploration, and repetition are some of the teaching methods utilized to promote successful learning. We create a comfortable place for preschoolers to build social skills and kindergarten readiness skills in a school setting.
Maggie Stephens
Program Director
margaret.stephens@walton.k12.ga.us
Mary Bailey
Paraprofessional
mary.bailey@walton.k12.ga.us
(770) 266-4576
