This year in Ontario, Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day will take place on October 25, 2017. Celebrated annually, this day recognizes the valuable contributions of Early Childhood Educators and the impact they make in our schools and community. In Ontario, all Early Childhood Educators are governed as members of a professionally recognized College of Early Childhood Educators. Similar to The College of Teachers, the College of Early Childhood Educators outlines a Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, which places great emphasis on leadership, relationships, well-being, learning environments, current pedagogical approaches and the value of communication and collaboration (College of ECEs).
In recognition of the integral role that Early Childhood Educators play in supporting quality education and care, this year’s theme “We Create a Brighter Future” reminds us how these professionals support our youngest learners in meeting their full potential. This year’s theme reminds us all of the important role early childhood educators and child care workers play in building strong and supported children, families and communities according to Child Care Ontario.
Toronto District School Board is one of the largest employers of Early Childhood Educators in the Province of Ontario. Over 1,300 Early Childhood Educators provide quality early years experiences and support student success in our Full-Day Kindergarten classrooms, Parenting and Family Literacy Centres and our community operated Child Care programs. Educators in these programs align their practices with The Kindergarten Program (2016) and How Does Learning Happen? (2014). TDSB values and recognizes the tremendous contributions they make to student well-being and development.
On behalf of the TDSB, please join us in expressing our sincere gratitude for the dedication, skill and commitment of our Early Childhood Educators and Child Care partners.