In this episode, Jamie shines a spotlight on a critical yet often overlooked issue: the funding disparities in Ontario's school-age childcare programs. They unpack how inequitable funding impacts children, families, and educators, delving into the systemic barriers that perpetuate these challenges.

The discussion highlights key differences between funding structures for early years programs and school-age care, revealing a persistent gap that undermines accessibility and quality. Guest speakers [insert guest names or roles, if applicable] bring their expertise and lived experiences to the table, sharing stories from the front lines of advocacy.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Why funding equity is essential for creating inclusive and high-quality school-age programs.
• The ripple effects of these before and after school programs closing
• Strategies for advocating at both the community and policy levels to demand systemic change.

The episode closes with actionable takeaways for educators, parents, and allies who want to join the fight for fair funding.

Call to Action:

Whether you're an educator, parent, or policymaker, this episode equips you with the knowledge and tools to push for meaningful reform. Tune in to learn how you can contribute to ensuring equitable funding for all school-age programs in Ontario.

Join Jamie as she speaks with nine incredible podcasting educators in this roundtable discussion to explore the vital themes of mentorship, self-care, and advocacy. The conversation emphasizes the importance of play in maintaining creativity and passion in teaching while offering practical self-care tips and leadership insights. The podcasters share their experiences and highlight the need for proactive mentorship to bridge the gap between educational preparation and real classroom challenges. The podcast advocates for valuing early childhood educators and encourages collaboration to elevate the profession.

ECEs included in this incredible episode:

Erica Saccoccio - The Child Care Directors Chair Podcast

Carla Ward - The Everything ECE Podcast

Adva - Shaping Little Minds

Kayla - ECE, Honestly

Marcia - The Inspiring ECE Podcast

Melysa Mei - Pre-K Spot Talk

Susie Beghin - ECE Classroom Podcast

Kate and Carrie - Childcare Conversations

In this episode of The Forgotten ECE, we dive deep into the vital role that play serves in before and after school programs. Often overshadowed by academic pressures and structured routines, play is an essential component of child development, offering opportunities for creativity, social interaction, and emotional growth. We explore how these programs can foster a balanced environment where children can explore, learn, and build relationships outside of traditional classroom settings. Experts in early childhood education share insights on the unique challenges and opportunities in supporting play in extended care, and we discuss why it's crucial to prioritize play-based learning to create well-rounded, resilient children. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on how we can better support our youngest learners during these crucial hours.

In this episode, I sit down with Amanda Lucier, RECE and cofounder of Sensory Sprouts, to dive into her inspiring journey in the Early Childhood Education field. From starting out as an ECE assistant to becoming a Supervisor, Amanda shares how Before and After School programs played a pivotal role in shaping her career.

We discuss the unique challenges and opportunities in supporting school-age educators and how Amanda ensures they receive the same level of support as their preschool and toddler RECE counterparts. Whether you’re an aspiring supervisor, a school-age educator, or just curious about the field, this conversation is filled with valuable insights and inspiration.

Tune in for a story of growth, dedication, and advocacy for all educators!

In this episode of "The Forgotten ECE with Miss Jamie," titled "Beyond the Bell: The Hidden Impact of Afterschool Professionals," we’re turning the spotlight on the crucial yet often overlooked role of before and afterschool programs. Our guest today is Erica Saccoccio from the Childcare Director's Chair podcast. Together, we’ll explore the significant impact these programs and their dedicated professionals have on children, despite frequently being overshadowed in discussions about quality education and care. We’ll delve into the challenges they face, including issues with funding, recognition, and quality rating systems, and discuss how we can advocate for more equitable support and opportunities for this vital sector.

Guest Speaker: Erica Saccoccio

Erica is a visionary leader in Early Childhood Education, with a rich and impactful career that has spanned over two decades. Her passion for nurturing young minds began twenty-four years ago when she embarked on her educational journey by obtaining her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. This foundational step laid the groundwork for her to make a significant impact in the field of childcare and education. Driven by her desire to make a difference, Erica pursued her Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education, equipping her with the skills and knowledge needed to elevate the standards of childcare. Her thirst for learning and growth didn't stop there. Erica expanded her horizons by completing the prestigious 10k Small Business Entrepreneurship Program at the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI), where she acquired invaluable insights into leadership and entrepreneurship. In 2021, she proudly graduated from Charter Oak State College with a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Leadership, further solidifying her expertise. Erica's commitment to excellence and innovation is evident in her work as a mentor and CDA advisor. She empowers her staff by sharing her wealth of experience and expertise in childcare management, fostering an environment of continuous growth and development. Her leadership style is characterized by her unwavering dedication to providing quality education and care, which has earned her the respect and admiration of her peers and colleagues.

Throughout her illustrious career, Erica has received numerous accolades that celebrate her contributions to the field. In 2006, she was honored with the Rhode Island School Age Coalition Advocacy Award, recognizing her tireless efforts to advocate for children and families. Two years later, she received the SBA Women in Business Award, a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to empowering women in the business world. Her outstanding achievements were further acknowledged in 2010 when she was named the Rhode Island Minority Small Business Person of the Year by the SBA.

In this inaugural episode of The Forgotten ECE, join us as we embark on a journey into the heart of summer camp! From the initial excitement of the season's arrival to the meticulous preparations that turn an ordinary summer camp into a haven of adventure, we’re diving into every detail.

Tune in to hear anecdotes from summer camp veterans, tips for organizing a smooth setup and executing your plans throughout every week of camp. Whether you’re a summer camp enthusiast or just curious about the magic behind the scenes, this episode is your first step what it takes to host summer camp program.

In this compelling episode, we navigate the intricate challenges and triumphs of repurposing community spaces to support before and after-school programs. Join us as we delve into the complexities of sharing space among schools, libraries, and churches, and the profound impact it has on underserved communities.

Join me as I delve into the essential, yet often overlooked, practice of documentation and its profound impact on shaping the educational landscape for school-age children.