First Steps 4K Leader Spotlight: Deserae Beard, Learning on Main, Warrenville, SC
What inspired you to become a First Steps 4K Leader?
The First Steps 4K program was presented to our center with such poise and purpose, and the values of the program were so clearly defined. Our center knew immediately that we wanted to become partners. At a minimum, we assumed we would learn structural pieces of the program that we would be able to mimic in other areas at our center. Sign us up, we want the “more” you are offering!
What are your core values as a leader?
Our staff would tell anyone that I start every monthly meeting with our 3R reminder, we strive to have Respectful, Reciprocal, Relationships with one another. Sharing goals and having similar visions is always ideal, but not easily obtainable until clear communication and the purpose for the drive is individually understood by all staff. My favorite and most effective task involving a different form of communication has been learning to create simple, silly short video clips where we've created mock-up situations, and the clips will show the opposite of what is expected. We’ve received great feedback and learning through laughter doesn’t hurt, either. Here’s an example!
How do you foster a positive and supportive work environment for your staff?
We put intentional effort into creating a family-like bond with one another. Spending time together outside of the typical workday isn’t what most staff expect when coming on board. Once the bond on a personal level is established and each staff feels valued, seen, and appreciated outside of roles and expectations, friendships are usually created. We plan mini excursions, day trips, dinners, seasonal events, paint parties, etc. In a small amount of time, co-workers turn into those who show up for family events, birthdays, children’s extra-curricular activities and the list goes on.
We have a few different things that are done weekly as a “pick-me-up.” Staff are welcomed twice a week with “Joy Juice” as they walk in. Every 60 days, we create a commitment board and staff make the choice to either put effort into committing, or they don’t. Since studies show it takes around 60 days for something to become a habit, we celebrate in some form for anyone who truly gave it their best effort. This helps us hold one another accountable, also.
We’ve found that putting the goals into practice as people usually spills right over into the classroom. Most recently, we have focused on, “If I change the way I look at things, the things I look at change.” We ordered a box of assorted, silly sunglasses. When we are confused, frustrated, or simply need to take a step back and reassess the situation, we toss on a random pair and verbally say, “When I change the way I look at things, the things I look at change.” Often, we need to reset our perception. This has been fun and effective.
What strategies do you use to build strong relationships with families and your community?
Most recently, we started creating simple little ‘sunshine’ bags and have staff randomly give them out to people in our community. Everything in the bag must be yellow and we will fill them with kind words, but we do not attach our name or center name to the bag. This enables staff to feel the gift of giving and to make connections with others without their being a direct need. Creating relationships with our families often requires more common denominators than interest in childcare and we’re steadily learning in this area.
What are your long-term goals for your career in early childhood?
Creativity has no limit and learning with an eager, childlike heart shouldn’t either. Preparing staff for anything that may come our way can get redundant at times, especially when some staff have been participating in group meetings over the years. The delivery does NOT have to be repetitive. This past month, I decided to dress as a pinata, and the only way candy would be tossed was if they “hit me” with questions or suggestions. This was fun for everyone. To keep it going, I attached a board to my door with a pinata and a bowl of candy. If anyone has any needs, questions, or suggestions throughout the day, they jot it down and walk away with a sweet treat. It’s showing me that many are feeling heard when they can comfortably voice things without it being in front of a group of people.
What impact do you hope to make on the lives of your students, your families, and your community?
As I’d imagine most young girls do, growing up with aspirations of being a mother was no stranger to my young soul. Though I was never big on playing with baby dolls, I would always come straight home from school and not skip a beat until I was in my “preschool classroom” located in my parent’s attic. My nine students, I mean stuffed animals, aided in allowing my imagination to run wild. I couldn’t wait to get upstairs to share the new things I’d learned at school with their fuzzy hearts. Fast forward just a few years, very little has changed! After learning that biological motherhood wasn't in my path, I chose to see each student going forward as an extension of what I'd like to share had I been able to have children. This was a game-changer! When I learn something new, I get equally as anxious to go share the info with anyone willing to engage! I’ve learned to sincerely love each student as a child, first and my desired impact for each of them is to create a lasting bond.
Topics:
First Steps 4K
