January 2024 Newsletter
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With January being National Mentoring Month, our focus in this month's newsletter is on mentorship in the world of early childhood education. Mentors play a crucial role in shaping the future of early childhood education, and as you will read, they can enhance the support and quality of a child care program. Building Bright Futures is proud to support participating mentors through stipends and a mentor support program with Child Care Services Association (CCSA) that offers guidance and professional development. Thank you, mentors, for all that you do!
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An In-Depth Look at BBF’s Mentor Support Program with CCSA
BBF is committed to supporting mentors of ECE apprentices and pre-apprentices through a program with the Child Care Services Association (CCSA). We spoke with CCSA’s Sharon Little and Amy Duffy to give an in-depth look at the development of the Mentoring Apprentices and Pre-Apprentices Program (M.A.P.P) and the power behind mentorship.
SAVE THE DATE!
The next Community of Practice webinar for BBF mentors is February 13 from 1-2PM.
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Spotlight: Amber Fairbetter, Owner and Mentor at Sunny Side Academy in Blowing Rock, NC
This month's spotlight is on Amber Fairbetter of Sunny Side Academy in Blowing Rock, NC. Amber is the owner of BBF-participant Sunny Side Academy and serves as a mentor to her apprentices. Amber highlights the responsibilities and importance that a meaningful mentorship can have within a child care program.
Interested in a being featured in a BBF Spotlight?
Do you have photos or stories to share about your program that we can highlight in an upcoming newsletter or social media post? If so, contact Megan Johnson, Program Manager at megan.johnson@nc.gov to be featured!
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Special Webinar Series for Pre-Apprentices and High School Students
We have a special three-part evening webinar series tailored for registered pre-apprentices and high school students interested in careers in early childhood education. Those who are new to the field are also welcome to attend.
Visit our Events page to learn more. To register, contact Megan Johnson, Program Manager, at megan.johnson@nc.gov.
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T.E.A.C.H. Apprenticeship Scholarship
Did you know there is a T.E.A.C.H. scholarship program exclusively for apprentices? If you are already utilizing a T.E.A.C.H. scholarship and are a new apprentice pursuing an Associate's Degree, the Early Childhood Educator Apprenticeship Scholarship may be a better fit! To learn more, contact Amy Duffy, Senior Program Manager of the T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® North Carolina Scholarship Program at amyd@childcareservices.org.