Chat Transcripts
Topic
Chat Session 1
Date
2025-07-28
Group ID
0Course ID
301466| User | Timestamp | Message |
|---|---|---|
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 06:47:01 pm | Welcome! As you come in, please feel free to test out the chat feature and share a little about yourself. You can respond in anyway (no right or wrong response). Here are some questions if it is helpful: Where are you from? What type of program are you or would you like to be the Director/Leader of? What has brought you JOY lately? |
| Villa, Johanna | 06:54:47 pm | Hi everyone, Johanna here! I am interim director at Seward Child Care Center in Minneapolis. In the formal sense, I hope to become the permeate director in the fall. In the informal sense, I hope to be a community member who is a key figure in building a welcoming, warm environment. A community member who other can trust to be a helping hand and whose care is evident in their actions. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 06:56:12 pm | My name is Dana and it sounds like Hannah with a 'D'. I am no longer providing direct care to children but in previous roles, I worked in center-based programming and a nature-based outdoor family child care program. I find JOY each day in learning from my 7 & 8 years old and daily phone calls from my daughter that is 20- years- old. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 06:56:56 pm | Thank you for starting us of, Johanna! What a lovely picture you have shared with your words. |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 06:56:59 pm | Hello, my name is Heather DeVaughn, Dandelion Wishes Licensed Daycare. I have a group license, and employ 3 people. Ideally, I would like to expand my very successful program and run a Christian farm school. I have the funds, but want to grow my leadership skills before moving forward. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 06:57:58 pm | Hello Heather! Love the farm school models I have seen. We have our own tiny farm now and it would have been such a joy to have this while I was providing group family child care. |
| Gantt, Tricia | 06:58:31 pm | Hey everyone! Tricia Gantt here - Lakeville, MN! I am currently a AD of our Early Childhood Education Center through the YMCA! Summer has brought me so much joy - the sunshine, heat, all the pools + ice cold beverages! 🙂 |
| Staudt, Sara | 06:59:28 pm | Hi everyone! My name is Sara Staudt. I am the director at Jeremiah Program Child Development Center - Minneapolis. It is a new role for me, and I hope to build up my leadership skills to support my team. I have been finding joy in spending time outside with friends & family this summer! |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 06:59:33 pm | Hello, Tricia! I use the lake as my pool but I prefer the pool- less turtles that I imagine are ready to get my toes! |
| Gantt, Tricia | 06:59:50 pm | Also a mom of 3 kiddos - one who turns 22 today, and a 8 and 5 year old! It's been a whirlwind! |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:00:03 pm | Hello everyone |
| Cloud, Adrienne | 07:00:23 pm | Hello, everyone! I am from northern Minnesota and I work for a Tribal Head Start program on Leech Lake. My dream was to own my own child care center one day, but I eventually want to be the Child Care Services Program Manager, or the Early Childhood Development Program Director. I find Joy in hanging out with children, my own and the ones in our program. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:00:24 pm | Hey, Sara! How exciting to start a new role- good luck! |
| Swafford, Andria | 07:00:25 pm | Hello! I am Andria from Mankato. I am a Director of The Children's House at Minnesota State University Mankato. We serve families of students, staff and faculty on campus and families from the mankato community. This summer I have been busy with my 9 and 6 year old with a lot of baseball!! |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:00:35 pm | Hello, Zina! |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:00:43 pm | Dana, I bet your nature program was so much fun for the kids and you as well! So much to be learned outside of the classroom |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:01:24 pm | Yes, Heather! I love to be outside so it reduce the stress of a loud classroom. I have sensitivity to noise as well so very helpful to be in the outdoor space. |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:01:31 pm | Hey Everyone! I'm Jackie Snabb. I am the Director at Stay n Play Childcare Center at the Litchfield site. I want to be the leader of a successful and happy group of people and children. Recently,a trip to Michigan brought me joy! |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:03:06 pm | Hoping everyone had a wonderful Monday! We all know how it can be to jump back into the swing of things after a good weekend! |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:03:09 pm | Ok, so welcome everyone!!! I will do my best to respond to you all throughout the evening in some way. You will most likely see a follow up question come to you at least once during the evening so look for those from me. We should start with some helpful tips for chatting. If you remember, the Eager to Learn team shared that I will use the * symbol as a way to get everyones attention and use that symbol for you all to respond to show me you are ready. Let's try it out * |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:03:31 pm | * |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:03:34 pm | * |
| Swafford, Andria | 07:03:35 pm | * |
| Marron, Scott | 07:03:38 pm | Hello, I am Scott. I am the director of Tender Learning Center. I have worked there for 20 years. I have been the director for about three years. I am the father of four boys. |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:03:48 pm | * |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:03:48 pm | * |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:03:50 pm | * |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:03:56 pm | Hello, Scott! |
| Cloud, Adrienne | 07:04:00 pm | * |
| Marron, Scott | 07:04:40 pm | * |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:04:55 pm | Chats move FAST, if you have trouble keeping up read the transcripts after . |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:05:05 pm | Hello, my Name is Zina Johnson, director for Mary T. Wellcome child development Center, north Mpls community. We have just had a fun health and wellness day with center families and staff out at North regional park. Families enjoyed nature walks, fishing, biking and wadding pool, as well as fun grilled foods. This was one of our community center events. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:07:16 pm | First question- In the video presentation two alternate definitions of leadership were offered – one based on title and one based on ‘setting direction or vision for a group to follow” – so, which aligns with your thinking about leadership? Are you a leader because you have a title or is it something else that makes you a leader? |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:07:33 pm | Hi I am NAzliya , Director at Littlebees child care center |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:07:43 pm | I definitely align more with the idea that leadership is about setting direction or vision for a group to follow rather than just holding a title. Titles can come and go, but true leadership shows up in how you influence and inspire others. As an Assistant Director, I see leadership as something lived out through actions; how I support staff, model best practices, and help guide our team through both challenges and change. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:07:47 pm | Hello, Nazliya! |
| Butler-Robinson, Lafayette | 07:07:55 pm | Good evening. My name is Lafayette Butler-Robinson and I'm the director at Brookdale Learning Center located in Brooklyn Park. My joy for today is that I have power back at home after last night storm. |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:08:20 pm | Yay to having power back - I think we might get another round tonight! |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:08:26 pm | Hi everyone, My name is Cinthia Hernandez, and I’m the Director at Mis Amigos Spanish Immersion Preschool. I’m passionate about creating a nurturing, inclusive environment where children can grow through language, culture, and play-based learning. I'm excited to be part of this course and to learn and grow alongside all of you! |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:08:30 pm | TRICIA- I really appreciate how you emphasize leadership as action and influence rather than just a title—your perspective on modeling best practices and guiding through change is powerful. How do you continue to develop your ability to inspire and influence others in your role as Assistant Director? |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:08:34 pm | I hope never to be a leader in name or title only...I have been subjected to that and I hope I learned from it |
| Swafford, Andria | 07:09:09 pm | I try to lead by example, staying true to my values and showing my passion for the work I do. I hope that energy carries over to the team and encourages others to bring that same enthusiasm. I approach situations with an open mind and try to keep communication clear, respectful, and honest. I know not every decision I make will be everyone's favorite, but I always do my best to keep what's best for the group in mind and gather input before moving forward. |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:09:18 pm | In my mind, a leader sets a direction/vision for a group to follow. As Tricia mentioned, titles come and go. To me, a leader is someone who not only helps set a vision or direction, but who actively uplifts the full team to set that vison and direction, gathering input from all stakeholders. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:09:32 pm | HEATHER- That's a strong and honest reflection—it's clear you value authentic leadership grounded in action and integrity. What experiences have shaped your understanding of what it means to be a genuine leader? |
| Marron, Scott | 07:09:37 pm | I believe that I am a leader because of vision, for a group and self direction. I became a director to do that instead of the leaders that are in title alone. |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:09:47 pm | Our staff and kiddos are truly my encouragement. It is truly all of those little WHY moments that make all of the difference - especially in the moment I wonder why I am continuing on, as we all know how stressful childcare on top of leading others can be! |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:10:10 pm | I am a natural born leader in tons of ways. I am busy all the time in leadership roles not just at work. each one is also different than the other |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:10:13 pm | * |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:10:17 pm | ANDRIA- Your commitment to leading with integrity, openness, and enthusiasm really stands out—it’s a great model for others to follow. How do you navigate situations when team input is divided or when consensus is hard to reach?o bring that same enthusiasm. I approach situations with an open mind and try to keep communication clear, respectful, and honest. I know not every decision I make will be everyone's favorite, but I always do my best to keep what's best for the group in mind and gather input before moving forward. |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:10:33 pm | Leader is a person who seee the bigger picture and work twerd the goals and take the entire team to the finish line |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:10:39 pm | Hello Johanna. I too started as a intern director. So I understand the work load. |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:10:46 pm | For me both. I think I am a leader first through my actions that demonstrate a high level of care, dedication, work ethic, and desire for providing high quality care through high quality work. Sometimes this means leading by example and allowing my actions reflect our values and missions, other times is supporting others in doing so. It means finding new ways to challenge myself and living just outside of my comfort zone. Being comfortable with the idea that mistakes are inevitable and a part of becoming better. |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:10:52 pm | The definition of leadership that resonates most with me is the one centered on "setting direction or vision for a group to follow." While a title might give someone formal authority, true leadership comes from the ability to inspire, guide, and influence others toward a shared goal. In my experience, leadership is demonstrated through actions, consistency, emotional intelligence, and the ability to lift others up—not just by holding a title. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:10:55 pm | SORRY ANDRIA, that looked confusion- here it is again- ANDRIA- Your commitment to leading with integrity, openness, and enthusiasm really stands out—it’s a great model for others to follow. How do you navigate situations when team input is divided or when consensus is hard to reach? |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:11:09 pm | I have Luckily had GREAT bosses as well as bad, and my favorites genuinely cared for and advocated for their team, asked for feedback, got buy in and led with integrity. |
| Cloud, Adrienne | 07:11:38 pm | I think leadership is less about authority and more about responsibility, humility, and the impact you make on those around you. |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:11:49 pm | Great bosses make all the difference - we learn to lead and support from those who lead and support us - for better or for worse! |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:11:59 pm | NAZLIYA- I like how you describe a leader as someone focused on the bigger picture and guiding the whole team toward success. How do you help keep the team motivated and aligned when obstacles arise along the way? |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:12:47 pm | SARA- ChatGPT said: I really appreciate your focus on collaboration and uplifting the team in the vision-setting process—it reflects a truly inclusive leadership style. How do you ensure all voices are heard and valued when gathering input from diverse stakeholders? |
| Marron, Scott | 07:12:55 pm | Heather, it is great that you had a mix of good and bad leaders. I have too, but it seems to me my experience has trended on the more title driven leaders. |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:13:07 pm | I feel like a leader is someone who is actively searching for ways to make everything and every one run at their best. They are objective |
| Swafford, Andria | 07:13:54 pm | When we have situations that not everyone agrees on, we have tough open conversations knowing that we are all trying to come to the best outcome for all. I try to listen to everyone and understand that I am not always make everyone happy but try to find a way to compromise. |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:14:08 pm | Scott, I hope the title driven leaders were there to teach us to do it differently 🙂 |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:14:35 pm | Adrienne- Great point that true leadership is not about authority but responsibility and accountability. |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:14:46 pm | Hello Heather, I love the ideal of the farm school. We our center visited some ranch in Wisconsin family owned farm, that had student from the inner city come and feed the animals, do gardening make a dish from the garden. It was a very wonderful experience for the students. |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:14:50 pm | A great leader is someone who inspires others through their actions, listens with empathy, leads with integrity, and creates a shared vision that brings out the best in each member of the team. |
| Butler-Robinson, Lafayette | 07:15:07 pm | I believe I'm both persons. My leadership comes from being in childcare for over 20 years. While in those years, I have done every role in the center so being a director, I can relate to every person that is employed but also give guidance in their position. |
| Marron, Scott | 07:15:19 pm | Heather, I agree with you. It does inform my interactions with staff and families and the children. |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:15:22 pm | That's a great question - to get input from teachers & our center coach, I hold 1-1 meetings biweekly with each teacher to check-in. I try to get input there. Once I am noticing a trend or pattern in something, I bring it to one of our monthly team meetings to get more feedback. Additionally, my center functions wihtin a larger context - we are part of a 2GEN model serving single moms who are completing college. So when I need feedback from our families, I often work with our family services team to get input from them. |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:15:48 pm | Hi Dana, Leader have to be a person who is guide the team, a person who can assign and achive things for every one to be suceseful.. My main obstacle Asking people or teeling pople what things need to following licensing regulation and keeping a healthy relationship with staff. |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:15:50 pm | Zina, that sounds so amazing!! How fulfilling for everyone involved |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:16:05 pm | Sara - I love the weekly check in's - I would love to start doing this to ensure everyone feels herd |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:16:09 pm | * OK EVERYONE* please notice if there are questions for you. As you work through reading responses of others, you will also try to give feedback to them and ask a question here and there of others. I have used an AI assist for these first question to speed the process of getting to all of you but will shorten my responses in the next questions. Ready for the next question?* |
| Marron, Scott | 07:16:17 pm | Lafayette, I can relate to you on what you said. It makes sense. |
| Swafford, Andria | 07:16:32 pm | * |
| Cloud, Adrienne | 07:16:34 pm | * |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:16:44 pm | * |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:16:46 pm | * |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:16:48 pm | Hello Lafayette. I’m so glad you have power, I’m still waiting for mines to return. |
| Marron, Scott | 07:16:51 pm | * |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:16:52 pm | Tricia - the check-ins are great, but I do move them a lot, since I depend on our float to cover the classroom |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:16:55 pm | * |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:16:56 pm | Andria- your practice in handling conflict reminds me a lot of The 4 agreements: "Be impeccable with your word" "Do not take anything personally" "Do not make assumptions" "Always do your best". My Center runs as a cooperative and use these 4 agreements to center our staff meetings. |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:16:58 pm | * |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:17:00 pm | * |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:17:06 pm | * |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:17:09 pm | * |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:17:41 pm | Johanna - I LOVE those agreements!! |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:18:18 pm | Tricia- they come from The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide To Personal Freedom by Done Miguel Ruiz. A great book! |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:18:26 pm | Note to self, look up the 4 agreements, very nice Johanna |
| Butler-Robinson, Lafayette | 07:18:47 pm | Thanks Scott. Being a person who has done those postions, you have a better understanding what is needed and how to support |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:19:04 pm | Great interactions and responses everyone! Looking for participants to use the * to indicate that you are ready to move on to the next question.... |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:19:14 pm | Thank you so much for sharing! I honestly stuffing with slowing down to read and focus while I am doing so but I will look into it! |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:19:16 pm | * |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:19:25 pm | * |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:19:51 pm | * |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:19:54 pm | * |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:20:05 pm | Does your program have one leader or many leaders? Who can be a leader in your program? |
| Butler-Robinson, Lafayette | 07:20:27 pm | Zina. Our power goes out every times it rains. We had 3 different time frames. Wednesday was the original time to be back on |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:20:46 pm | Our program has many leaders, not just one. While there is a formal leadership team, including myself and my co-director, leadership at the YMCA stretches far beyond a single person or role. Teachers lead in their classrooms every day, assistant teachers step into leadership during transitions and tough moments and even support staff lead through the consistency and care they provide. Above us, the leadership continues up through multiple layers of our organization, from our program directors to our executive directors, VPs, and all the way to our CEO. Each level plays a unique role in shaping the direction, values, and culture of our program. What I love about working for the YMCA is that leadership is recognized and encouraged at every level. It's not just about managing people, it's about inspiring action and living our mission, no matter your title. |
| Butler-Robinson, Lafayette | 07:21:08 pm | * |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:21:22 pm | 2. One Leader or Many: I strongly believe that our program has many leaders. While I may hold a formal leadership role, I see leadership qualities in our teachers, and even floaters. Anyone who takes initiative, models our values, solves problems collaboratively, or supports others can be a leader in our program. Leadership is about mindset and impact, not hierarchy. |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:21:45 pm | I teach everyone, including the children at our center we are all leaders. I have an executive director, then me, my teachers, asst teachers, aides and then the children |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:21:58 pm | Cinthia - agreed! |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:22:21 pm | aT the moment we have one leader. Eventhough we have a one leader, the rest of the staff become leader themself for that classroom. |
| Cloud, Adrienne | 07:23:07 pm | My program has many leaders. Even our leader, has leaders. I would say anyone can be a leader, as long as they commit to the bigger picture and purpose. Mentoring, taking initiative and supporting others is what it takes. |
| Marron, Scott | 07:23:11 pm | We have many leaders in different areas. We have an assistant director that helps lead on the more administrative aspects. I have teachers that help engage parents in the center. I have others that help lead and motivate other teachers. Some share other ways things could be done and give helpful resources. There is a lot of leading up in our center, which is what I encourage. |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:23:14 pm | My program has many leaders. We have a formal leadership team at each site, including an executive director, and then heads of each department (including myself). Within our center, we have myself & our center coach who are leaders in name. Additionally, my organization has a national team that has identified leaders. However, I am working with my team to shift the mindset of leaders are those with titles to giving everyone more agency to be a leader and help make program-wide decisions. |
| Swafford, Andria | 07:23:32 pm | I feel really fortunate to work with a team full of strong leaders. My lead teachers and I work together when it comes to making decisions for the center. While I may be the one making the final fall, their input is essential because they know the children and families on a deeper level than I do. Even though I'm in the classrooms regularly, they're the ones with the kids every minute of the day and having those every day conversations with families. they bring perspectives I simply wouldn't have on my own, and I truly rely on their insight. At the same time, they count on me to share information and guidance that I'm uniquely in positioned to provide. We all depend on each other, and that collaboration is what makes us successful. |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:23:35 pm | Leadership: I have to say as a director. Setting the tone for the organization as a whole is and has been a challenge for the last three weeks. While helping staff see their potential in one hand and the other having them understand what us expected. Showing support and motivation, but still expecting follow through. |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:23:46 pm | I believe that trying to be the only leader in your program is the fastest road to burn out, and it deprives other staff members from reaching their abilities as well. I encourage everyone in my program to serve as a leader. |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:23:53 pm | My Center runs as a non profit cooperative. As a non profit we have a board of directors. Because we are co-operative, our board members are made up of currently enrolled parents. All of our staff are considered our "teacher collective" a body that is regularly survey and involved during decision making process. As a cooperative, we also have a volunteer requrimented (2 hours a month per caregiver). This volunteering can take the form as simple cleaning shifts, taking on large jobs like our gardener, being on our maintenance team, being on a fundraising and grant team. We also have a director positions. We try to have a variety of outlets and levels for folks to let their leadership and other skills shine. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:24:17 pm | CINTHIA-Love that- mindset and impact. How do you encourage and support those informal leaders so they feel confident using their voice and skills? |
| Butler-Robinson, Lafayette | 07:24:29 pm | I am the only leader, but our center has 2 owners. They both allow me to run the center as though it's mine, but I still run most things past them before i decide to incorporate it into our program. |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:24:52 pm | Johanna - I love the volunteer requirement for families! What a great way to ensure families are involved and truly part of the coop model! |
| Cloud, Adrienne | 07:24:52 pm | I agree with you Heather! It would be tough to try to be the only leader. That is a lot of responsibility, and most times, the work that needs to get done is way more than one person can do. |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:25:07 pm | Johanna - the co op set up seems awesome! |
| Marron, Scott | 07:25:11 pm | Tricia, It sounds like a good organization that supports leadership and ownership and partnership within it. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:25:18 pm | JACKIE- Tell me more about how you help the children in your center understand and practice being leaders in their own way? |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:25:40 pm | Nazliya- i love that you highlighted that all staff have the opportunity be leaders in their classroom! so true! |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:26:11 pm | I encourage and support informal leaders by recognizing their strengths and giving them opportunities to shine. Sometimes leadership doesn’t come with a title it shows up in initiative, creativity, and the way someone supports their peers. When I see those qualities, I make a point to acknowledge them and offer space for growth whether that’s leading a team meeting, mentoring a new teacher, or sharing a classroom strategy that’s working well. |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:26:11 pm | Scott - it is! We are also a non profit - so naturally I feel like funding gets in the way of all we want but we are really committed to serving all in our community! |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:26:13 pm | Cinthia - I love your point about leadership being about mindset & impact! |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:26:20 pm | Hi Villa , It seems a new approach. differnet would love to know more. |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:26:52 pm | Thank you villa |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:27:18 pm | Thank you Sara. 🙂 |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:27:59 pm | I agree with having more than one leader. Although I am the director I cannot do it alone. I have an assistant director, lead teacher, supervisor all have different roles, but same focus. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:28:22 pm | Scott- I would love to hear how you create a culture where everyone feels comfortable and empowered to lead up and share their ideas? |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:28:34 pm | I teach them about what beng a good person is, about making good choices for themselves and others. I encourage them to be leaders throughout the day and imagine being a leader of something. Sometimes I get some great creative ideas for being a leader! |
| Marron, Scott | 07:28:42 pm | Cinthia, I think that is a very healthy and empowering way to do leadership. It sounds supportive and positive. It can help others to be more invested. Is that true from what you have experienced? |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:29:55 pm | Thank you for sharing further, Jackie. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:30:02 pm | Ok* next question?* |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:30:07 pm | * |
| Cloud, Adrienne | 07:30:06 pm | * |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:30:07 pm | * |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:30:11 pm | Jackie, the wisdom of these children! They really are teaching us while we are teaching them |
| Swafford, Andria | 07:30:16 pm | * |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:30:21 pm | Hey Johanna - I was just mentioning to one of my operations directors about your concept, and she mentioned she had someone similar in her CARE fellowship - it was you! 🙂 |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:30:24 pm | SCOTT: Thank you so much! Yes, from my experience, when team members feel supported and valued, they become more engaged and invested not just in their own roles, but in the success of the whole program. I've seen teachers grow so much when given the space and encouragement to lead in their own way. It builds confidence, strengthens relationships, and creates a more collaborative and positive work environment. Leadership truly is about lifting others up! |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:30:27 pm | * |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:30:31 pm | * |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:30:31 pm | Absolutely Heather!! |
| Marron, Scott | 07:30:33 pm | In meetings or discussions I ask for others to give input and to take their ideas and make them happen over my ideas if the general consensus is positive. |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:30:34 pm | * |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:30:37 pm | * |
| Butler-Robinson, Lafayette | 07:30:47 pm | * |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:30:46 pm | * |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:31:01 pm | Trica and Johanna- great to make connections and networks in these spaces. That is fun to see. |
| Marron, Scott | 07:31:23 pm | I have others take the lead and offer support and resources and connections to try their ideas. |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:31:30 pm | Johanna - I just realized that one of my colleagues who leads the St. Paul center used to work at Seward! |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:31:39 pm | Great ideas, Scott- thank you for expanding. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:32:02 pm | Sara- even more connections! Love this. |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:32:12 pm | Sara- yes Lily! |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:32:17 pm | Question three: In the NAEYC Program Administrator Competencies, five ‘functions’ of the program administrator were offered – pedagogy, organizational development and systems, human resources, collaboration, and advocacy. Which of these did you read and think – “that’s where I excel”? |
| Marron, Scott | 07:32:30 pm | Cinthia, I love that approach. |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:33:01 pm | Scott I like that as well. Having staff stake the lead on projects helps build community, and stability. |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:33:11 pm | The function where I feel I excel most is collaboration. Working at the YMCA, relationship-building is central to everything we do. I thrive in bringing people together: staff, families, and community partners, to work toward a shared goal. Whether it’s co-planning events, finding creative solutions to staffing challenges, or communicating with families, I feel confident in my ability to foster strong, respectful partnerships. |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:33:25 pm | I think I am a tie for human resources, collaboration and advocacy |
| Marron, Scott | 07:34:00 pm | Collaboration is where I feel I excel. I am more of a coach/teamate kind of leader. |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:34:09 pm | Pedagogy and Collaboration |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:34:25 pm | the area I most identify with as a strength is human resources. I excel at building strong teams, fostering positive relationships, resolving conflicts, and mentoring others. I value supporting staff emotionally and professionally so they can thrive and in turn, so can the children and families we serve. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:34:30 pm | TRICIA- "I feel confident in my ability to foster strong, respectful partnerships"- what does 'respectful partnerships' mean to you/look like? |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:35:16 pm | I thought about pedagogy & collaboration. Prior to my current role, I was an instructional coach and loved working with teachers to hone their practices and implement new ideas. Within my organization, I am working hard on collaboration but have seen a lot of gains in the past few months! |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:35:42 pm | I feel that I excel at organization development and systems and pedagogy. I naturally seek structure and order and try to create systems to ensure longevity of a process or practice (rather than each person having to reinvent the wheel). And like many of us, I am very passionate about remaining fresh with best practices, enhancing my knowledge on our curriculum. and recognizing there is always teachers out there who know more and have different ideas. |
| Marron, Scott | 07:35:50 pm | Cinthia, I think that is great. I do that as well. I see it as more of collaboration, but I see how it is human resources as well. |
| Butler-Robinson, Lafayette | 07:35:58 pm | organizational development and systems - I have learned over the years and have taught other centers ways to be more efficient in their office especially when it comes to licensing |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:36:14 pm | CYNTHIA- Do you have any resources that you would suggest to others that have strengthened your 'resolving conflict' skills? |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:36:22 pm | DANA: To me, respectful partnerships mean relationships where all voices are heard, valued, and considered. It looks like open, honest communication, even when there are challenges and a genuine commitment to supporting one another’s success. In practice, that means showing up consistently, listening without judgment, honoring boundaries, and working through differences with empathy and professionalism. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels safe, appreciated, and empowered to contribute. |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:36:45 pm | I have read about all five functions of the program administrator as outlined in the Naeyc, I am still not sure where is my stongest, May be the collabaration. I am good with bulding relationship with families |
| Cloud, Adrienne | 07:36:46 pm | I feel like I excel in Human Resources. I genuinely value people and believe that a strong, supported, and motivated team is the foundation of a successful early childhood program. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:36:48 pm | Beautiful described, Tricia! |
| Swafford, Andria | 07:36:51 pm | I feel the most confident in pedagogy due to my experiences in the classrooms and with families though I struggle with the word "excel" as it implies that you've got it all figured out and I think there is always room for growth. |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:37:04 pm | It doesn't mean we always have to agree - but we need to show up with respect and the assumption of good intentions by all. |
| Marron, Scott | 07:37:11 pm | Johanna, Do you have ample time to accomplish that? is that part of your strength in organization? I struggle to find the time myself on that aspect. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:37:43 pm | WOW! This group is impressive. You all are moving so quickly with such rich responses and thoughtful comments/questions to one another, thank you all! Let's keep rolling! |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:37:49 pm | * |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:37:54 pm | * |
| Swafford, Andria | 07:37:53 pm | * |
| Cloud, Adrienne | 07:37:54 pm | * |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:37:57 pm | * |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:37:58 pm | * |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:37:58 pm | * |
| Marron, Scott | 07:38:03 pm | * |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:38:16 pm | QUESTION FOUR: Which function caused you to think, “I could use some growth in this area”? |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:38:20 pm | Lafayette, what a gift to those organizations! I can see this really benefitting newly established programs as a way to set up the right systems from day one, as well as helping established programs improve |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:38:33 pm | DANA: Yes! Over the years, I’ve leaned on a few key resources that have really helped me grow in my ability to resolve conflict in a respectful and productive way. One of the most impactful for me has been Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High. This book has truly been a game-changer. It helped me approach difficult conversations with more clarity, confidence, and emotional control especially in moments where tensions are high or emotions are running strong. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:38:40 pm | AND QUESTION FIVE: Do you find one or two of these functions to be the most critical to your program’s success? Or, are they all equally important? Why? |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:38:59 pm | Question 4: I would say I could use some growth in organizational development and systems. I’m hands-on and focused on the day-to-day, but I sometimes struggle with seeing the long game, especially when it comes to designing or refining systems that can improve operations in the long term. I want to get better at thinking more strategically and consistently about how the structure of our program supports staff and children. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:39:12 pm | Cinthia- thank you for sharing- OTHERS- note this resource if you are interested. |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:39:26 pm | For Me I feel like I need the growth in understanding the staff, making sure they follow the licing rules and regulation, teaching them to be good roll model |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:39:35 pm | I recently was part of a U of MN extension course on strengths based leadership through Meeker County. I read the book Strengths based Leadership by Don Clifton, definitely worth the read if anyone's interested |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:39:43 pm | The area I’d like to grow in is advocacy. While I advocate for my staff and families daily within the center, I recognize the importance of developing a broader voice whether it's influencing policy, participating in local early childhood initiatives, or working with community partners. I’d love to find ways to be more active in that space. |
| Butler-Robinson, Lafayette | 07:39:47 pm | Heather, yes It works wonders. The less time your licensor is in your files the quicker they are out the door. |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:39:50 pm | To me, the organizational development & systems is my biggest growth area. I often get caught up in the day to day and miss the big picture tasks and organizational work that would make my job easier in the long-run. |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:39:53 pm | Question 5: While all five functions are important, I find pedagogy and human resources to be most critical to our program’s success. Pedagogy ensures we are providing meaningful, developmentally appropriate learning experiences, and human resources impacts how well we support and retain passionate, skilled educators. That said, the functions are deeply connected, and the strength of our program really depends on how well all of them work together. |
| Cloud, Adrienne | 07:40:19 pm | I know I can strengthen my skills in areas like strategic planning, budgeting, data analysis, and continuous quality improvement. This probably falls under organizational development and systems. |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:40:27 pm | Advocacy is definitely an area of growth opportunity for me |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:40:39 pm | question 4: I think my largest area of growth is human resource. I find it is the more difficult to get training on and is often a forgotten/ neglected aspect of the early childhood field. |
| Marron, Scott | 07:40:41 pm | I would say pedagogy is an area I need to improve on. I never seem to have the time to even get to that aspect as much as I would like. |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:40:45 pm | Organizational is where I am working hard to improve on |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:40:55 pm | TSarah, I agree pegagogy and collaborat. I have found that support, and resources have become more valuable as move forward. It is the resources and collaborations that provide a strong learning foundation for scholar and for our families. |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 07:40:58 pm | I believe it can be challenging to complete all the day’s tasks when unexpected events arise. Many times, you have to make quick decisions that are still effective in order to keep the day running smoothly. |
| Butler-Robinson, Lafayette | 07:41:40 pm | I believe every area has some improvement that can make my job a little bit more stress free |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:41:53 pm | Sorry for typos, I think faster than I type. |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:42:03 pm | Question 5: I think that all areas are equally important, especially within my program. However, right now, I would say focusing on the human resources & organizational development would be 2 areas that could most impact my program. |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:42:08 pm | Lady - the unplanned/unexpected events always take away from my daily task list!! |
| Cloud, Adrienne | 07:42:08 pm | I think all five functions are equally important, but some may be more important with different situations happening in the program. |
| Marron, Scott | 07:42:12 pm | Lady, I agree completely. It is difficult at times. |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:42:33 pm | question 5: In theory they are all equally important. But in practice, I believe one or two of these naturaly become more important depending on your programs goals. If your center is striving to grow the organization development and systems may be more important. If you program is striving to improve the direct quality of care, pedagogy is more important. But they are all equally important for the maintenance of a high quality program. |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 07:42:30 pm | but the most important team work, when you listen your staff asking if you need help with something because thay have time. this is really grateful |
| Swafford, Andria | 07:42:35 pm | I'd like to grow in my ability to reach out and build relationships beyond the immediate community I work with. I feel confident and comfortable working with families and teaching staff I've built strong trusting relationships with but connecting with with community parterres and other early childhood professionals I tend to hesitate. Part of the challenge is simply stepping outside of that comfort zone. |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:42:44 pm | Hi Heather, I feel like if you are new establishment you can create somthing that you want to the staff to follow. |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:43:10 pm | I like that mindset, Nazliya, thank you! |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:43:25 pm | Johanna - I agree that the human resources aspect can be tough. I feel good about many areas, but I struggle with the more difficult conversations around performance & improvement plans. |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:43:45 pm | Tricia, How do you mange when unplaned/unexpected things happens all the time |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:43:52 pm | Hey Lady- I see you were able to jump in! I got your email. Just stay on this thread after class and review the questions and add your responses before you leave the chat 🙂 We will get this figured out 🙂 |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:44:11 pm | OK! LAST QUESTION * |
| Marron, Scott | 07:44:16 pm | Lafayette, I appreciate your authenticity. We can all improve in all areas I would guess. |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:44:17 pm | I also feel like HR can be tough when we have a separate HR department that is removed from childcare and doesn't quite get all the licensing questions! |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:44:27 pm | * |
| Butler-Robinson, Lafayette | 07:44:31 pm | I am also due consultant work and teach new and existing centers better ways to operate |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:44:32 pm | * |
| Swafford, Andria | 07:44:38 pm | * |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:44:38 pm | Scott to your earlier question- it is definitely a challenge to find the time to create organization systems and procedures. But I find a lot of joy in "cleaning things up" so I prioritize those projects to make sure I have more time for other projects down the road |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 07:44:36 pm | thank you Dana. i will do. |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:44:42 pm | Tricia - I agree 100%! Sometimes I spend a lot of time explaining childcare to our HR team! |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:44:44 pm | Nazilya - if I am being honest - lots and lots of post it notes! |
| Cloud, Adrienne | 07:44:43 pm | * |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:44:44 pm | * |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:44:47 pm | * |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:44:49 pm | * |
| Marron, Scott | 07:45:01 pm | * |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:45:06 pm | * |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:45:10 pm | I LOVE post it notes! |
| Butler-Robinson, Lafayette | 07:45:42 pm | * |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 07:45:40 pm | the post notes is your best friend sometimes, they really keep you in the primary task. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:45:57 pm | *What questions do you have about this week’s assignment? * |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:46:00 pm | Me too, I thrive on posted notes. |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:46:23 pm | I feel like i even get lost thought post note,, |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:46:32 pm | no questions |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:46:38 pm | Nothing in specific 🙂 - looking forward to seeing everyone's dicussion posts! |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:46:50 pm | I have a question- what assignment? I actually do not see that you have one for week one. Just your Discussion Boards that start. So let me know if you would agree when you read this question, it seemed confusing? |
| Butler-Robinson, Lafayette | 07:46:51 pm | nothing at this moment |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:47:01 pm | I don’t have specific questions at the moment, but I’m looking forward to hearing how others approach the advocacy and organizational development areas those are topics I want to learn more. |
| Staudt, Sara | 07:47:03 pm | Is it just the discussion board? |
| Cloud, Adrienne | 07:47:03 pm | No questions. I am still getting used to the format of the class though. |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:47:06 pm | I typiclly have them stuff onto a notebook on my desk, and every Friday I re write a fresh one or multiple fresh ones for the next week! |
| Marron, Scott | 07:47:27 pm | Is the discussion different than this chat process? I am assuming it is? |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:47:26 pm | Is there is a assignment did i Miss?? |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:47:31 pm | no questions- just the discussion board right |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:47:36 pm | Discussion Board: Initial Post is due Wednesday, July 30th, with at least 3 additional posts to other participants by Friday, August 1st. ● Discussion Question: Share your organization’s mission statement. In what way does this mission statement ‘come alive’ in your organization? How do the things you do fulfill your mission? Is your organization’s mission statement a good description of ‘why’ your organization exists – its common purpose? Does the statement match what makes your program special and what gives it purpose? |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:47:40 pm | Tricia, I do the same thing lol. |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:47:49 pm | sorry, I thought all of it was our assignment |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:48:37 pm | JUST THE DICUSSION BOARD! I think there was once weekly assignments but they wrapped it into the one last FINAL ASSIGNMENT so email me if you have questions about that. Thank you again for all your hard work tonight!. |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 07:48:32 pm | i made a mistake with the discussion board and the live chat. Sorry!! |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:48:55 pm | I did the same thing. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:49:09 pm | No worries, Lady. See my note above about responding to the chat questions before you leave tonight. |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:49:35 pm | Thank you, Dana, and thanks to the group...this was super energizing. I'm already learning so much from all of you. You are appreciated |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:49:41 pm | No worries, Zina! We will all get this together and succeed. |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 07:49:37 pm | yes i will do right now |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:49:49 pm | I am making it clear I am not missing anything, We have to do the chats and at the end of all the chat session we have to do the assignment? |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:49:54 pm | OH! one last thing... |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:49:57 pm | I just said it is nice to be in a chat that people are all doing something similar! |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:50:03 pm | Thanks everyone! Have a great night! |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:50:12 pm | Thank you Dana, for your help. |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:50:30 pm | Thank you eveyone, Have a great week |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:50:31 pm | I will do my best to respond to the DBs this week as well- I broke my leg on Wednesday and I am waiting to hear about appoinments and surgery. I will do my best to get in there early on@ |
| Hernandez Alcoser, Cinthia | 07:50:35 pm | Thank you! |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:50:54 pm | Oh Dana!! Ouch. Take your time and get better quickly! |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:50:55 pm | I hope you are feeling ok |
| Villa, Johanna | 07:50:58 pm | Oh no Dana! Sorry to hear that. Rest up! |
| Snabb, Jackie | 07:51:00 pm | Wishing you a speedy recovery!! |
| Marron, Scott | 07:51:02 pm | Sorry to hear that Dana |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:51:13 pm | That |
| Sadiki, Nazliya | 07:51:16 pm | * |
| Johnson, Zina | 07:51:23 pm | Thank you everyone really enjoyed the collaboration |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:51:24 pm | Thank you everyone! I wish the same and will rest in between the work! |
| DeVaughn, Heather | 07:51:44 pm | oops...thats awful Dana, so sorry. I hope you heal well! |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:52:02 pm | I will be staying off ladders for a while 😉 |
| Gantt, Tricia | 07:52:20 pm | Have a good week everyone! Remember the difference you are making in a the big and little ways! Yes, Dana - no more ladders!! |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:52:29 pm | Ha! Tricia. |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 07:52:31 pm | about the first question, I consider myself a leader because I enjoy organizing and, at the same time, actively participating in the execution of my plan. I like working as a team with my group, creating a work strategy that they can carry out even in my absence. Additionally, I believe it is important to share my experience while also being open to learning from others. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:53:24 pm | Nazlyia- still there? |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 07:53:29 pm | My program has two principal leader but we have the backup in the case that we need support form other in the busy days. |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 07:54:16 pm | i consider that always is important to share the ideas and knowledge to the people who has skill to be leaders. |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:54:26 pm | Nazlyia- to respond to your question. You have chats each week, Discussion Boards each week, and one final assignment. |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 07:55:18 pm | about this question " In the NAEYC Program Administrator Competencies, five ‘functions’ of the program administrator were offered – pedagogy, organizational development and systems, human resources, collaboration, and advocacy. Which of these did you read and think – “that’s where I excel”? |
| {Ellingson, Dana} | 07:55:25 pm | Lady- thank you for responding. Sorry you were having trouble navigating to the week one chat feature. That is tricky the first time! |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 07:55:39 pm | yess sorry about it. |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 07:56:00 pm | so continue with the question, i am new in the admi |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 07:57:06 pm | administration area so, basically the five functions looks interesting and huge to cover every time but not impossible. |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 07:59:33 pm | Having a rubric that shows your progress or delays toward a long-term goal can be helpful. However, I feel that whenever a goal is set, it often develops differently than originally planned—especially when there are many different responsibilities to attend to. Still, the system expects you to stay focused on that goal every single day. |
| Ferrusca, Lady | 08:00:38 pm | I already answer the last question. For sure next week i will participate in the beginning of the chat. |
