Kendra Rouse

Background

About Kendra Rouse

When I was 22 years old, I went looking for a work study job in college and the only job left was aiding a second grade classroom. I immediately was enamored and after college I decided to give Early Education a try temporarily. Almost eleven years later, I still savor each moment I get to watch the childhood wonder when discovering something new or the pride on a child’s face when they accomplish a goal! Early Childhood Education has been the great passion of my life. As both a Lead Toddler Teacher and Director Designee at the JCC Early Learning Center, I juggle a variety of different tasks around staff, parent and child needs. As the Lead Toddler Teacher, I have created an environment where all children and families feel welcome and see their individuality reflected. The parents are part of our team, so I am in daily communication with them through various platforms. I see myself as an advocate for each child in my care, and therefore I serve as a bridge between parents and outside services if I have students with diverse needs. Spending my days with toddlers has given me a new perspective on teaching and what children are truly capable of. At the JCC Early Learning Center, I was trained in the Reggio Emilia style. We focus on open-ended activities where the children are active participants in their curriculum development. I truly enjoy being able to dive deeply into learning with the children. I am skilled at creating flexible developmentally appropriate curriculum plans that balance the needs of both the individual children and the whole group. I am accomplished at documentation. I work hard to make the learning visible through themed displays, photographs of activities, portfolios and bi-yearly assessments. As Director Designee, I am in charge when my Directors are out. I answer phone calls, aid staff by making break schedules or offering classroom support. On top of these responsibilities I have taken on the leadership role in our Sunshine Committee. This committee's job is to bring the staff together and to boost morale. The field of education is always changing and I believe it is important for me to as well. I am constantly seeking out opportunities for professional development, whether it be trainings, workshops or attending conferences. I am currently working at the JCC through August. However, I am always open to discussing new opportunities as well as growing my network and speaking with like minded professionals. I am also open to working in other fields than Early Education. Let’s connect!