In October 2020, Children & Family Services welcomed a Professional Development Coordinator to strengthen the program’s workforce development program. A new role for the department, the Professional Development Coordinator oversees curriculum development, professional development, and new staff training at seven Head Start sites.
The Coordinator provides individualized coaching and training for Head Start educators using a curriculum that reflects the cultural values and diversity of the families served while ensuring school readiness goals are successfully met. The Coordinator also collaborates with Center Directors to promote best practices in early childhood development based on Head Start Performance Standards and maintain our educators’ certification tracking system so our educators continue to stay within compliance.
Professional Development Coordinator Anna Uribe Vender, with more than 10 years of experience in early childhood education said educators have the most critical job in the world.
Luis Arenas, Director of Children and Family Services said that in such a short time, the program has seen growth in the quality of training opportunities for Head Start staff over the last few months. “It’s been great! Prior to Anna, we didn’t have anyone dedicated to professional development,” said Arenas. “She has met with staff on an individual level to establish and track their professional goals. She also meets with Center Directors to get with big picture ideas.”
“They have the opportunity to shape and guide students to be future leaders who will promote systemic change,” said Uribe Vender. “It’s my role to best support them to make it all possible.”
