In Praise of the ECE

It has been roughly six months since Kindertown reopened amidst this ongoing pandemic, and though there has been constant changes, struggle and what has felt like a constant state of subtle fear – our frontline educators have done the impossible – they’ve created a warm and welcoming place where normal is still, well…the norm. 

It’s been amazing to watch as our frontline educators have stepped up to the challenge these last six months – constantly rising above and going beyond the current call of duty. With extra protocols in place to ensure a safe and sterile environment (beyond the measures already taken), our educators have admirably maintained quality programming, acted as ad-hoc nurses, and continued to pursue excellence in their field by committing to continuous professional learning opportunities. In general, they haven’t missed a beat this entire time – and despite a few moments to stop and compose themselves, they’ve shown up every day to continue their hard and necessary work with an open heart and a warm smile, while dragging with them the massive weight from the pandemic that we’ve all had to deal with. 

Each morning, our educators have shown up at Kindertown’s front door and put everything aside in order to create a learning environment that represents a time before the pandemic altered our daily routines and practices. They’ve greeted children and families each morning and bid adieu every night – while knowing in the back of their mind that they will be unable to see their own loved ones. They’ve learned to adapt their interactions between children by engaging with a gentle touch and warm expression, despite the obstacles presented by PPE. They’ve done what they love to do, without restraint, complaint or refusal – because that’s what heroes and heroines do. 

With massive support from the City of Hamilton, ASCY, and the entire ECE community, our educators have ensured that children, the future of our community and our city, are provided with the very best opportunities to thrive, both now and in the future. More than that, our small but mighty community of families and guardians have demonstrated a patience, understanding and cooperation that has made this tall order much easier. They’ve changed and adapted to the new protocols, supported our overabundance of caution, and graciously understood that a small symptom requires a large response. 

We have hope to believe there is light on the horizon, and that maybe, we are coming around the bend – but in the meantime – we take great pride in knowing that we have some of the bravest, dedicated and impactful group of people on our frontline every single day. 

Thank you – not just to our K-Town educators, but to everyone that has dove headfirst into the unknown and helped our community and those like ours to catch our breath, recollect ourselves, and push forward to brighter days.