Welcome our New Early Learning Academy Director – West Branch

“Hello! My name is Morgan, and I am proud to be an Early Childhood Educator! When I was young, I had dreams of becoming a teacher. During my senior year at Oswego High School, I took a child development course and began building a career around advocating for children and their families.

 

After graduating high school in 2009, I took my first position as an Assistant Teacher. I fell in love with the work and, after a few years, decided to grow professionally and continue my education.

In May of 2016, I graduated from Southern Illinois University with a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, emphasizing Child and Family Services and Curriculum and Instruction. During my time at SIU, I took many Early Childhood courses, conducted research in the field, and had diverse work-related experiences.

 

Upon returning home, I accepted my first leadership position. I conducted interviews, supported teachers through observations, and provided professional development throughout that time. I also conferred with parents on policies, age-appropriate activities, and enrollment.

In 2019, I studied abroad in Reggio Emilia, Italy. This trip had a profound impact on my perspective of education. I believe every child is central to their learning and is a natural-born scientist. Through their play, questions arise, investigations happen, and theories are tested about what they know and want to know about the world.

 

I took a position at the Fox Valley Central YMCA as a Preschool for All Teacher in 2020. I immediately felt welcome while noticing the actual value of community. The impact on healthy bodies and minds for staff, children, adults, and families is inspiring. I am eager to continue being part of the movement.

I married my husband in March 2021. We bought a Victorian home to renovate in Sandwich, IL. A year later, becoming the director for the Fox Valley YMCA Early Learning Academy – West Branch is important because it is not only close to home, serving my neighbors and friends. It is also where my children will begin their educational journey. I cannot express the gratitude and excitement I have for all that is to come!”