Hello Families of Grace, Grace Children’s Center has been a major part of my life since March of 2007, where I first started as a Part Time Teacher in the Pre-Kindergarten Classroom. I eventually was given the opportunity to be Lead Teacher and Teach Full Time in a Pre-School Classroom setting, where at the time, I was going to school to receive an Associates of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education. I graduated in 2009, and was able to apply all skills that I’ve learned with my students and watch them grow and learn.

Over the years of Teaching here at Grace, I taught many children, watched them learn new skills, reach milestones, and Graduate out. I eventually look a step back from Teaching and became Assistant Director- in 2014. I learned a lot in this position, while finding ways to use my degree to support the Teachers here at Grace.

In 2017, I started the long road to get my Bachelor’s Degree in Teaching. I originally was going to get my Teaching Certificate, but pivoted and came to the decision that Teaching littles, was more my passion and wheelhouse. Again- my position shifted to Program Supervisor for Infants and Toddlers. As at the time, the classes I were taking catered to Toddlers- PreK.

Going back to school, came with hardships and finding that balance of work, school and home. But I made and gained new Teacher Friends Along the way, and in June of 2019, I walked across Stage and Received my diploma: Bachelors of Applied Science in Early Learning. The goal when I graduated in 2019, was to branch off and find an ECEAP, Head Start or Preschool Classroom setting, within a school district. However, some things arose that put that goal on the back burner, COVID and life.

Over the past few months, I have been doing some self-reflecting and conversing with colleagues, I have finally decided to pursue my dream. I was offered a Job as a Para in a Preschool Classroom and have accepted the position. It was a very difficult decision to make as I have spent many years here at Grace and building many positive relationships with families and Teachers. But I am ready to take that leap and fly, my last day at Grace is the Beginning of the New School Year. I am sad to be leaving here, but I am excited for my new adventure.

I am actively working with Leticia and the Center’s Ministry Team to help find someone to take my place. In the meantime, I will cherish the last few weeks I have with you all.

Blessings and Love,

Jackie Caoagdan