Farewell!

            As I look back on my experience at Walden University, I must say that I have gained a new insight to the importance of self-reflection.  Without this, I think my life in the classroom will become status quo.  With self refection, I can honestly appraise what is working and what is not.  If something is not working, I can reach out to others to gain information to help me.  Also, through self-reflection I learned that I had some biases that needed improvement.  I learned that ridding myself of bias is truly the only way to teach children in an anti-bias environment.

            I also learned the importance of connectivity and accountability.  Those of you whom I have met in this program have helped me become a stronger teacher and person.  You have countered my thoughts at times and helped me stretch my thinking.  Through this course, I learned the importance of having a Community of Practice (CoP) and using research and support from others to strengthen my work in the field.

            As I have researched, I think the most important gleaning has been that every family is the expert on their child and wants what is best.  I have learned it is my responsibility to meet families where they are, and assist them in their journey through school. 

            I have learned to hone my writing skills as well.  When I began the program, it took me loooong hours to write one paper because APA was foreign to me.  This taught me a lesson though.  In a sense, APA is a code to follow.  I thought about English Language Learners who have to work to break the code of the English language.  As it took me time to learn the correct way to communicate in a scholarly fashion, and my patience was tested, I think how the ELLs must feel trying to learn our language.

            A long term goal of mine is to continue learning about ways that I can positively impact families through their involvement in their child’s education.  I will continue to research articles and attend conferences.  I want to go above and beyond the minimum requirements to assist families in becoming involved.  I desire to impact social change beginning in my community. 
            Dr. Teri, I want to personally thank you for all your guidance!  You words of encouragement and feedback definitely helped me grow in just eight weeks!  I appreciate your detailed information and with it, I was able to achieve my goal of finishing strong!  Thanks again! 

            I have never been good at saying goodbye.  To my colleagues, your words of encouragement over the last year and a half have helped me when I felt like giving up!  I believe each of you will make an impact in the ECE field.  To my professors, I want you to know I appreciate your comments and feedback.  I feel as if I am ready to embark on a great journey!  Please stay in touch.  My e-mail address is kristilhargis@comcast.net

Best wishes and may God bless you!