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Making an Impact at the ELC in the Past and Present

April 14, 2023
Children and instructors.

Once an educator, always an educator! Laurie Zeitlin shares the rewards of working at the Stoler Early Learning Center and why she continues to inspire and love her job.

Laurie Zeitlin.

My favorite part of my “dream team” is the unspoken word! We just work so cohesively together, that we don’t even have to ask or tell each other what or how to do things. It is just a natural thing, and we definitely bring out the best in each other and our children. I came back to work at the JCC after retirement (and being home all day- every day due to COVID) and one of the main reasons was to have the opportunity to work with Laura & Violet. We have a new team member, Anaya, who is also amazing with the children and loves each and every one of them. Their dedication, love for the children, and creativity is what makes me excited to walk in the door each and every day!!

The most rewarding part of my job is the amazing and positive feedback we get from the parents. I always say that a thoughtful card or verbal thank you is what keeps me motivated to do what I do every day. We have parents that just give us random notes expressing their appreciation for all that we do and how much we love and nurture their toddlers. These quotes from parents- past and present say it all. “Our child is in good hands, and you are the biggest blessing”. “You are so warm and caring and go above and beyond with your class!”
We know that we make a HUGE difference in the lives of our toddlers, but receiving affirmation from their parents is the cherry on top of the sundae!

I have run into parents whose children I taught and are now in their teens and twenties. I started at the JCC in 2003 and those children are now 20 years old. Usually, the parents recognize me and then ask the children if they do. Many do remember me, and some parents express what an impact I have had on their children over the years and their accomplishments. It is always nice to see how they turn out and what they become. I would like to think I had a little bit of an impact on them as learners and members of society (even future leaders!)

Laurie Zeitlin.

I have taught 2s, 3s, 4s, and now Infant Toddler. I never imagined how much I would enjoy teaching emerging 2s. It is so inspiring to see how much our children have grown. They began in our classroom doing parallel play and with little verbal interaction. Today they are beginning to play together interact verbally with teachers and their peers and become part of a community. Watching them grow emotionally and socially is why I love teaching toddlers! They are little sponges who soak up everything we introduce them to. They love learning through meaningful play!

Interested in working in our rewarding environment? For more information please visit www.www.jcc.org/early-learning-center-jobs.

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