Black History Month celebrates African American heritage and triumphs over the challenges faced since the abolition of slavery. It is a month that recognizes the adversities that African and Black Americans face and have faced throughout U.S. history.
In 1926, Carter G. Woodson advocated for a time dedicated to educating people about Black History and culture. What was once envisioned as a single week, by the 1960s had become what we now know as Black History Month.
It was officially recognized by President Gerald Ford in 1976 where he called the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history”.
This year, CentroNía is recognizing leaders of early childhood education as well as some of our own early childhood educators who make a difference in the lives of the children and families we serve every day.
Meet Ms. Jeanette, a CentroNía Pre-K 1 teacher!
CentroNía: What is your favorite thing about being a teacher?
Ms. Jeanette: Molding young minds to be productive scholars.
CentroNía: Do you have anybody who you admire who identifies as Black/African American and who inspired you to get into the early childhood sector?
Ms. Jeanette: My son Rodney Abbey.
CentroNía: What drew you to CentroNía?
Ms. Jeanette: The diversity of the organization.
CentroNía: How do your values align with the organization’s mission?
Ms. Jeanette: My values align completely with the mission to educate and help strengthen families in the multicultural community.
CentroNía: Tell us about your career path. How did you end up in your current role with CentroNía?
Ms. Jeanette: I have 23 years of teaching experience. Along my educational journey I taught Special Education for 12 years. I want to continue teaching diverse scholars.
CentroNía: What is your favorite activity to do with your students at CentroNía?
Ms. Jeanette: To mold their incredible little minds, to enjoy learning and bringing story books to life.
CentroNía: What advice do you have for those interested in becoming an early childhood educator?
Ms. Jeanette: My advice to anyone that wants to be in the educational field, don't do it for just having a job, you have to have the passion to want to make a difference. So, if you want excitement, a challenge, and satisfaction of making a difference with scholars and families this is the career for you.
