Welcome to Our Child Development and Education Department

"Education either functions as an instrument which is used to facilitate integration of the younger generation into the logic of the present system and bring about conformity or it becomes the practice of freedom, the means by which men and women deal critically and creatively with reality and discover how to participate in the transformation of their world."Paulo Freire

Our faculty is committed to the highest standards of teaching and learning for all students. We are proud of the many special programs and grants we are able to offer you as you pursue your academic, professional, or personal goals. Your success pursuing your goals is our success.

Vision Statement

Our vision is of a world where every child is nurtured, respected, and supported in their development by professional, well-trained teachers who help them to become responsible, engaged and caring citizens of the global community.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Child Development and Education department is to prepare professional early childhood practitioners to work in a variety of settings with children and families.  Students achieve this competence through educational experiences that immerse them in pedagogy, encourage critical thinking and active learning, and provide them with direct opportunities to practice skills.  Students leave our AA degree program with skills in building relationships with children and families; with a sense of the importance of community engagement and advocacy; with a commitment to uphold ethical standards and with a passion for life long learning.

Our Values

• The importance of relationships in all human learning
• Pedagogy grounded in current research and knowledge
• Embracing diversity through genuine acceptance of each individual’s uniqueness
• Communication as a mutual responsibility
• Professionalism demonstrated through reflective practice, ethical behavior, advocacy and life long learning