First Steps 4K Leader Spotlight: Gary and Shamaria Staggers, Kiddie University, Marion, SC
What inspired you to become First Steps 4K Leaders?
I (Gary) was a teacher in a First Steps 4K classroom prior to opening Kiddie University and became familiar with Creative Curriculum. I knew that once the opportunity presented itself to become First Steps 4K Leaders we would be interested. As a teacher, I fell in love with the program and what it provides for the children at the pre-kindergarten age. Being a former teacher in a public school setting as well, I was able to see students come into my class lacking the very same knowledge that the First Steps 4K program was designed to instill in children. Seeing that correlation first hand, I was able to realize how important the pre-kindergarten learning stage is for children in our community and the impact it would have if more children were to become exposed to the program. I also love the coaches and training that First Steps 4K provided which gave me the tools to succeed as a teacher and now currently as a leader. Having that experience and seeing so many people passionate about what they do has allowed me to take that same energy and bring it back to our center to make it the best it can be.
What are your core values as a leader?
As leaders in child care, one of our main core values is geniune passion. We love children which makes what we do easier. Of course we are challenged at times, but it's the passion that allows us to see the good in every situation. We meet the children and their families where they are and as a team, we figure out what's best for the children because at the end of the day that’s what it's about. We also value service, humility, and respect. As leaders, we not only provide a service to families but also hold ourselves responsible to be of service as well. We are here to help, and if that means putting someone else’s needs above our own then that’s what we do. When it comes to humility, we let families know that we are not above or below. We are right there with them fighting the same fight and wanting the same positive outcome for their children. We try to be relatable and let our staff and parents know that we are human, and we do not always get it right although we try the best we can. One of the most important core values is respect. We respect everyone in hopes of getting that same respect in return but of course we know that is not always the case. So as leaders, we make sure that we model respect in hopes of it rubbing off to those around us from the students, staff, and our families.
How do you foster a positive and supportive work environment for your staff?
Fostering a positive and supportive work environment for our staff is very important. Although we are considered the “bosses,” our business could not run without our staff. As a collective, “WE” get the job done. Small rewards and incentives are a must for us because we have worked in situations where there were no pats on the back, kind words, or rewards.
With that experience, we made a pledge to never let our team not feel appreciated or supported. We share the goals, ideas, and standards. We work together to perfect those things all while loving on our students and having fun with each other which makes everything else a little easier. From bi-weekly brunches, to spa days, and trips to Disney World, we let the world know that we love our KU crew!
What strategies do you use to build strong relationships with families and your community?
When it comes to building relationships with families and the community, we like to have family engagements and events as well as daily communication as a means of building those relationships. Every other month, we plan an event to bring students and families together. During the holidays, we do a lot of events, and we are known for jumping on charter buses and going on field trips! We also build relationships by communicating with families daily via our app, keeping them up-to-date on what's going on with their students as well as the center in general. Families are also able to chime in and give feedback in real time.
What are your long-term goals for your career in early childhood?
Our long-term goal is to become exemplary leaders and providers in early childhood education. We strive to create a nurturing and stimulating environment that sets a new standard of excellence for child care. By sharing our knowledge and experience, we hope to inspire and empower other centers to provide exceptional care. Ultimately, we aim to expand our reach to serve more families and children, building a strong and supportive community.
What impact do you hope to make on the lives of your students, your staff, your families and your community?
When it comes to making an impact on our staff, we would love for our staff to know and understand that they are impacting lives and to never take such a great responsibility lightly. When it comes to our students, we hope to make an impact on their lives by exposing them to new experiences and letting them know that we love them and wish them the best after leaving Kiddie University. To our families and our community, we would like for them to know that without their love, support and trust we would not exist, and we appreciate them hopefully as much as they appreciate us!
Topics:
First Steps 4K
