THIS is in response to Mrs K.H. Veena's letter 'Pay more to qualified preschool teachers' (Oct 27), in which she implores the Government to look into the salary of preschool teachers.
I would like to appeal to all preschool teachers to work together to get the Government's attention and recognition for the professional and high standard of practice that we provide.
Some of us are in this profession because we love children, while others are in it because they believe that they provide the foundation for lifelong learning.
Just like the foundations of buildings, the work that we do is often not visible.
As such, we need to work doubly hard to gain societal recognition. I know that many of us are passionate about our work, but passion is not enough. We must be able to put that passion into action.
Are we acting in a professional manner? We may have obtained certificates, diplomas and degrees, but are we able to translate them into our professional practice?
Do we relate to children, parents, our colleagues and the community at large with the respect that demands reciprocal respect?
Do we dress appropriately to project a professional image?
Are we always on time and do we ensure that all our responsibilities are met in a timely manner and beyond expectations?
Do we abide by our professional code of ethics?
Do we belong to a professional association? Are we able to make professional judgments in our daily practice? Are we reflective practitioners?
It is through reflective practice that we improve to the highest standard possible. Unless we rally together and demonstrate high standards in our practice, we will not gain societal recognition.
To all preschool teachers, do not be disheartened, let us not work alone, but build a professional community that we can all be proud of so that others can be proud of the work that we do in building foundations for lifelong learning.
Dr Christine Chen
President
Association for Early Childhood Educators (Singapore) - AECES
No comments:
Post a Comment