The Hurt of GoodBye

Goodbyes are something I am far to use to being a military spouse it is a constant struggle learning to say the “see you later” to people who have at times become family. At Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho leaving the team there was one of the hardest “see you later” I had done.

When I began I was informed I was coming in at a difficult highly translational time due to the leaving of a volatile director and recent incoming of the director whom I transferred in with. The beginning was tough the distrust and poor communication was rapid throughout the program, however with time the new director through positive communication and making it through the storm of team building began to create an environment of trust and personal as well as professional growth (Abudi, G., 2010).  

She established what was expected from all and the open-door policy that could be closed if it was a more private mater to be discussed. Fairness and the ability to rally us together for the greatness and growth of the children was what really began to shine throughout the program and the forming stage took hold once the trust was obtained by the staff (Abudi, G., 2010). She was also a leader she was passionate about early learning and created the highest quality, most welcoming environment possible for all involved. Her vision was clear and through her leadership, action and delegation allowing for others to feel valued throughout the program we all began to thrive and come together to create the environment the children deserved (Laureate Education (Producer), 2011). 

The goodbye potluck was the tradition as a teacher or support member left the program. The favorite foods and of course the “you have to bring that because it’s amazing” were brought to the training room and shared. Plaques, cards and tokens of appreciation were given to the member of the family soon to part and start anew.

Through this master’s program I have learned so much from all of my colleagues. I have learned about programs such as head start and others that everyone has shared. Being able to see what is valued and what the issues are throughout has been valuable with my daily work. I hope to remain in touch with as many as possible to continue to share thoughts, ideas and success as we continue to grow in our early learning career. The discussion boards have been a large wealth of knowledge learning from others and what everyone has to share.

Reference

Abudi, G. (2010). The five stages of team development: A case study. Retrieved from http://www.projectsmart.co.uk/the-five-stages-of-team-development-a-case-study.html

Laureate Education (Producer). (2011). Team building strategies [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu