Annette Drake (Instructor)
Early Childhood Educators play a crucial role in a child’s development and have a significant impact on their overall well-being. They introduce children to early academic concepts, such as literacy and numeracy, and promote essential skills like problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking. Beyond academic skills, they also play an important role in social and emotional development and shaping the lives of children as a whole. To celebrate Early Childhood Education Week, we’re be spotlighting some of the amazing faculty and student members of our ECE program.
Meet Annette Drake
Annette is one of the talented instructors in our Early Childhood Education department. She joined us after 27 years of working in the field and now shares her knowledge and expertise with the future Early Childhood Educators of NL!
Here’s what Annette says about the important work being done in Early Childhood Education:
“With almost three decades in the field, I have witnessed the evolution of this exciting sector. The profession has shifted from caregivers that work for families to educators who work with families. Research in child development supports the value and importance of Early Childhood Education in society. So much is learned in the first five years, so it is crucial that children get a good start with caring, trained and knowledgeable educators. ECEs work in diverse settings such as regulated childcare centres, schools, family resource centres, or operate home-based childcare. We are essential to the community; we support economic growth and provide care for the province’s most valuable resource, our children. And it is such an exciting time for ECEs with the introduction of a newly released wage grid and financial incentives for educators to pursue higher learning. Learn more: ECE Wage Grid.
Over the years, I have worked with many wonderful educators who influenced my life and for whom I am truly grateful. The opportunity to mentor, guide and educate the next generation of ECEs is an amazing experience. A big thank you to the childcare centers who welcome our students and enrich their academic experience with hands-on learning. There is no greater time to join the profession and become a trained, certified ECE; we make a difference. Happy ECE week to one and all!”
Thank you for all you do, Annette!
