Over the past 2 years, I have went through some pretty interesting classes. I have endured a great deal of useful information that I have already started putting into action, and others that I will carry on with me for the rest of my educational career. I have also endured some pretty long nights, missed events, extensive research, and even some pre-labor pains (lol) while completing this MS degree.

If I had to recall three areas in this program that I feel have made me a better educator and a more knowledgeable individual;
EDUC 6162-Issues and Trends in the Early Childhood Field, where I was able to learn about different issues and problems that other countries are facing. Some where similar to the US and others were far worse than I ever imagined. Nevertheless, it only makes you more appreciative of what you have and are grateful to be blessed with, because other places and locations do not have the necessary resources to improve.
 EDUC 6166-Developing People and Leading Teams. This class was also an interesting one to be required to take. As my concentration is; Administration, Management, and Leadership; I was intrigued to knowing how to create a successful team and be a productive leader where my staff would respect, believe, and follow my guidance. This class also taught me how to evaluate staff and make sure that what they were doing was in a positive representation of my business.
EDUC 6990-Capstone: Practical Application in the Early Childhood Field. This class was a wrap up of all the classes within the MS program; however, it delivered in depth information that required us to construct a field project, challenge, and an opportunity to look within the future and to put it into action. At first, I thought that the project was a little challenging; however, after going week by week, I found it to be simplified with the feedback from Dr. Dartt, and fellow classmates.

One long term goal that I have is to making a suggestion that will encourage all teachers to form a Community of Practice at their place of work. By doing this, it will provide one another with a level of support and be able to hear feedback and make corrections from within their own work environment.

Lastly, I would like to thank all of my fellow classmates on a job-well done in completing this class, and the MS program. It has been nothing more than a pure pleasure working with each and every one of you. It has also been a joy having Dr. Dartt as our instructor, and moreso as our advocate for being successful in this course and our project. From the discussions, blogs, and applications; the feedback has been outstanding and remarkable. It has definitely encouraged me to keep striving no matter how difficult or frustrating it may be. I also think we have helped one another in becoming better advocates for young children around the entire world. I wish all of you nothing more than pure success and joy in your future endeavors.

I look forward to meeting and greeting if not all of you, then at least some of you during January's graduation in Orlando, Florida, 2015!!!! My contact information: Sherrell Widgeon- relly810@yahoo.com (in the subject line, please place your name and WALDEN so that I know it's one of my classmates).

Best Wishes to All,
Sherrell Widgeon

Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: Internationally

United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)
- UNICEF is a international organization that works closely with families who are dealing with; poverty, violence, disease, and various discrimination issues.
- They work with families who have been affected by HV/AIDS, and help them live their life with equality and dignity.
- They also promote girls' education, making sure that they finish grade school and become successful citizens.

Having used this website in the past, I am quite familiar with this organization and all that they offer. UNICEF works in just about all of the seven continents, and in multiple countries within each.


Save the Children
- Motto is to give each child in the United States what they deserve; a healthy start, opportunity to learn, and protection from harm (2011).
- Save the Children organization helps children globally that has been effected by poverty, abuse, homelessness, and other severe situations. This group provides children and their families with clothes, shelter, and even educational materials; such as school books and supplies.
- In 2012, Save the Children served as an aid when Hurricane Sandy tour apart the east coast of the USA. They provided protection and made emergency shelters available.

I have donated money some time ago to Save the Children after receiving some literature in the mail. At first I was hesitant, because I was wondering if the money actually reaches the organization and if it is used for beneficial matters. After doing some research and reading about the different ways in which this organization impacts and aids disasters, I was a little bit relieved and more relaxed about donating.


Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI)
-Mission is to promote and support the optimal education, development, and well-being of children worldwide (2011).
- ACEI is a 501 c3 charitable organization, that encourages and promotes social change. They look forward to ensuring that all children are given the same opportunities around the world, so that they are protected, supported, and educated so they can reach their full potential in life.
- To raise the standard and for those actively involved with care and development of children.


Jobs:
Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI):
Intern for 8-12weeks with possibility of being hired

Role: Gain online research and data gathering that will contribute the gathering to the development of development of briefing papers and other type of resources.

Education: Must be enrolled in a degree program that is geared toward childhood education.
Must reside in Washington, DC.


Curriculum Manager- in Abi Dhabi, UAE.
(3) years of previous teaching experience, preferably at a vocational institute.
2 year contract
Housing- subsidized
Health Insurance- family medical provided by employer. Return flight provided

Must have Bachelor's; however, Master's strongly preferred.
Teaching License
$3,100/month
http://southjersey.craigslist.org/edu/4518815518.html


Resources
Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI). (2011). Retrieved from http://www.acei.org/

Craigslist (2014). http://southjersey.craigslist.org/edu/4518815518.html

Save the Children. (2011). Retrieved from 
http://www.savethechildren.org/site/c.8rKLIXMGIpI4E/b.6115947/k.8D6E/Official_Site.htm

United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). (n.d.). Retrieved November 28, 2011. http://www.unicef.org/