Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: National/Federal Level

This week’s assignment made me take a look at what I have been doing for the last 23 years and how important it is to be able to reassess where I am and where I want to be within the next five years. I currently work for the federal government and I have been in various positions within the federal government system under the military affiliation. This week I ventured beyond the military walls and looked at the following national agencies and organizations:

Department of Education: www.ed.gov

A federal agency that is geared to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access. Job opportunities range from supervisory to research. Because this agency conducts research, analyze the research, and develop policy and procedures, I am most interested in seeking a job within the policy and procedures department. Currently there are no positions open. I did find a position that sparked my interest, Director, Special Education Rehabilitation and Research Analyst. Although I do have the experience and the education, currently I do not meet the criteria because I am currently 2 levels below the position.


National Education Association: www.nea.org

This is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, is committed to advancing the cause of public education. The mission is to advocate professionals and to unite our members and the nation to fulfill the promise of public education to prepare every student to succeed in a diverse and interdependent world. Positions in the NEA include executive, managerial, professional, technical, administrative/clerical and trades/crafts. Although the headquarters is in the Washington DC area, there are state affiliation connections for hiring. Being in the DC/MD/VA area there are opportunities in the area of Uniserv Director that primarily serve as advocates to make positive changes for teachers and students. I would need to be able to communicate verbally and nonverbally, have technology skills, be able to handle conflict and be a self- starter who works without direct supervision.

National Head Start Association: www.nhsa.org

Mission is to coalesce, inspire and support the Head Start field as a leader in early childhood development and education. The association is compelled to fulfill this mission by the promise of all the possible outcomes: one powerful, united HeadStart voice, a collegial, collaborative. There is a Director of Family Development positon available and of interest to me because I enjoy working with families and providing them with resources that will be effective in the development of their children. One of the requirements is that all applicants must be a member of the organization before you can view the position listing and apply.

All three sources that I researched appealed to my interest because their missions are related to my goal of being an advocate for early childhood. It is important that every child, family, and educator are provided the right resources that will ensure that all developmental needs are met and are offered equally to all, especially to those who have special needs. As I finish my Capstone and I obtain my Masters in the field of ECE Leadership, my goal is to be able to make a difference for children. I now see that there are many ways that I can be influential by either being a part of policy and procedure development, mentoring educators, and walking directly with families and children.