Exploring Roles in the ECE Community-Internationally

This blog post consists of international organizations that are doing work to contribute to the growth and well-being of young children and their families. International organizations are beneficial to the early childhood field because they help give a voice to children around the world. They also spread awareness about the issues concerning young children and their families globally and reach many influential people. Below I have provided a brief summary about each of these organizations and jobs within these organizations that interest me.

Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) http://www.ascd.org/Default.aspx
The Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) provides educators from various backgrounds with professional development opportunities. ASCD aims to empower educators through programs, products, and services (Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development [ASCD], 2013). Professional development opportunities include customized training, conferences, and online learning. The organization offers on-going professional development where experts observe, evaluate, and provide feedback to improve instruction and leadership (ASCD, 2013). Not only do educators receive training, but they are also connected to a community of practice upon membership. Educators are connected with other professionals around the world who are committed to providing children with the best education. The fact that educators can be connected to a community of practice with other education professionals from around the world is what made this organization appealing to me. From my current course, I have come to realize how important and impactful a community of practice can be to education professionals.

A role within this organization that has caught my attention is an ASCD Educator Advocate. An educator advocate connects with other education professionals in the organization to influence change in the field. An educator advocate would have to know the policies that affect teachers and students every day. They would also have to be knowledgeable about how to contact lawmakers and representatives to inform decisions regarding laws and policies that would benefit the education community. This role requires that one is willing to learn about politics and stay informed about current legislation affecting the field. Additionally, one would need to be passionate about children receiving quality education no matter where they live.

World Organization For Early Childhood Education (OMEP-USA) http://www.omep-usnc.org/
OMEP is a non-profit organization concerned about young children all over the world. People from over seven countries who are passionate about serving young children are members of this organization. More specifically, they work to ensure that young children around the world receive quality education and care. They are dedicated to remaining educated about the current issues, trends, and challenges associated with the early childhood field worldwide.  OMEP sponsors various projects and activities around the world that will positively affect young children and teachers in the early childhood field. This organization appealed to me because its efforts affect young children and teachers everywhere. Moreover, their main focus is on early childhood education, which is often overlooked in our society.

There are no official job positions available within this organization because it is an all-volunteer organization. Even the members of the board of directors are volunteers. However, I am still interested in the role of volunteer. To be a volunteer within this organization one would have to be able and willing to travel frequently. It would also be necessary to have effective leadership and collaboration skills to work with others on OMEP sponsored projects. Most importantly, volunteers must be knowledgeable about the needs of children around the world.

Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) http://acei.org/
ACEI’s mission is to promote the healthy development and well-being of young children worldwide. They also aim to provide teachers with professional development opportunities to improve their work. Their vision is that every child in the world will have access to the high quality care and education they need to become productive citizens. ACEI upholds the belief that all children have a right to learn. They have developed a country liaison program where individuals from different countries can share information to help others understand the needs and issues related to education in their country. I am drawn to this organization because of its belief that all children deserve a quality education and that early childhood educators should have opportunities for continuous growth and development.

The job that interests me within this organization is an executive board member. An executive board member of the ACEI makes decisions regarding the goals of the organization and distributing resources. The requirements for this position are demonstrating a commitment to the mission and vision of ACEI and the education of children globally. One must also demonstrate an inclusive attitude and appreciate diversity. Individuals on the board must have sound leadership skills, and it is desired that he/she has experience living or working in another country.