My early childhood career began when I, being a first-time parent, was seeking quality childcare for my daughter. I was looking for a program where I could trust that my child would be in a safe environment, where she would be with caring people, and that she would be taught more than what I was able to teach her at home. In order to assure this was happening, I began volunteering at her school. Through this volunteer work, I realized how much I enjoyed working with young children. I decided to enroll in early childhood courses and later earned an Associate Degree in Child Development/Early Childhood.

My first teaching position started in the preschool classroom with four-year old’s and “Center Time” was my favorite part of the day.  Listening to the children’s conversation, asking those open-ended questions, hearing their responses, and then being able to scaffold their learning is what motivated me to continue working with children. I took pride in seeing how excited they would get when they could master something or see it in a different manner.

I currently live in Corpus Christi, Texas. In my free time, I enjoy being with my family. I have three children ages 21, 16, and 12 (they are growing up fast) so spending quality time with them means everything to me.

What I enjoy most about my job is having the opportunity to be part of an outstanding program where the children are our first priority.  I work hand in hand with our families making sure our program offers an environment that is safe, nurturing and appropriate.

As an early childhood professional, we must acquire annual training hours required by our state’s licensing standards. CCEI offers the professional development courses that meet these requirements. I enrolled in CCEI online courses because they are easily accessible, and they offer courses that align with the requirements for professional development. I have continued my education through CCEI, earning the Texas Child Care Administration and Business Practices Certificate. I would highly recommend CCEI to others seeking a certificate program or to further their professional development. The support I received from my coach, Laura Hamilton, is what made it possible for me to complete my certificate program.