The issue of quality child care has been a topic of discussion and research for many years. The AECEO Halton branch has considered the AECEO provincial mission statement, "To be the leader in promoting the professional development and recognition of Early Childhood Educators, on behalf of children in Ontario" and has developed this forum to discuss, reflect and hear about other ideas and thoughts as they relate to the human resource in children's programs. There are not always opportunities to provide feedback well now is your chance!!
Using the learning community process, recommendations will be generated from this session. These recommendations and an action plan will be documented and shared with community
groups. Your ideas, support and energy are needed to move these recommendations forward.
The effect of positive early childhood education is everlasting.
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AGENDA
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8:30-9:00 am Registration
9:00-9:45 am Keynote -- Beverlie Dietze
10:00 –12:00 pm Small groups(Participants choose which
stream)
12:00-1:30 pm Lunch, displays and networking
1:30-2:45 pm Small group reports
2:45-3:00 pm Wrap up/door prizes
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STREAMS
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1. Admissions Process to College Programs and the ECE Curriculum
The topic leader will share information about:
- Applying to college and choosing Early Childhood Education training
- Curriculum in the Early Childhood Education program to include provincial program standards, learning
outcomes and employable skills
- Current practices of review and evaluation of the Early Childhood Education program
2. Strengths and Needs of Placement Students
The topic leader will share information about:
- Expectations of students on placement.
- Selecting and orienting the evaluating teachers at the placement sites.
3. Strengths and Needs of Graduates
The topic leader will share information about:
- How graduates are supported as they move into the workplace.
- The strengths and expectations of graduates.
- How graduates are assimilated into the children's program.
4. Recognition and Retention of Staff
The topic leader will share information about:
- Why recognition is important
- Why staff stay or do not stay in children's programs.
- The effects of high turnover
5. Qualities Required and Support for Supervisors
The topic leader will share information about:
- Supervision and the demands of today
- The importance of qualified supervisors
- Current community supports
6. Professional Development for the ECE
The topic leader will share information about:
- The importance of professional development
- Professional development opportunities for front-line staff and supervisors
- The current training needs of staff
- Challenges in this area
