LA Professor Predicts Big Changes In Field Of Preschool Teaching
Now is an opportune time to pursue a meaningful career as a preschool teacher. Thanks to a continued concentration on the usefulness of early childhood education and an expanding population of children between the ages of three and five, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment prospects in this field will grow by 17 percent in coming years.
"Currently in Los Angeles County, 56 percent of children ages zero to 13 have parents who work and are in need of childcare and early education," said Dr. Marlene Zepeda, a professor emeritus in the department of child and family studies at California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA). "Also, school districts are expanding preschool services as a means of addressing the achievement gap for low-income and vulnerable populations."
The veteran educator said she expects to see essential changes occur within this fundamental vocation over the next eight years.
"I predict that by 2022, there will be some form of universal preschool in Los Angeles. Preschool teachers will be viewed not as babysitters, but as full-fledged partners in the teaching profession," said Zepeda, who earned her Ph.D. in developmental studies and early childhood education from UCLA.
What is CSULA doing to help prepare ambitious students for a career in this field?
"In addition to our department's early education specialization, we have a Pathways program that helps students gain access to the courses they need, provides moral support via graduate student mentors and engages students in organized group activities."
What defines a good preschool teacher?
"An effective preschool teacher must like to work with young children and appreciate their unique view of the world."
How does one secure a sustainable career in this profession?
"Teachers should continue to seek out coursework and professional development opportunities that enhance their understanding of children, their families and the teaching profession. It is not unusual for a preschool teacher to advance into administrative positions or become a teacher of teachers."
What is your advice to aspiring preschool teachers?
"Teaching requires dedication, commitment, long hours and stamina to tackle the ever-changing landscape of early childhood care and education."
Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.
