U of I System Early Childhood Education Programs

Now working at: It Takes A Village Family of Schools

Program highlights:

The highlights of this program are that it is completely free of tuition cost, which removes a significant financial barrier and allows me to focus fully on my professional growth. I also value that the program directly supports me in obtaining my teaching license, providing a clear and structured pathway toward becoming a certified educator. In addition, the combination of one-on-one guidance and group support ensures that I receive personalized mentorship while also benefiting from collaboration and shared learning with peers.

Future goals:

My future goals are centered on remaining in the field of early childhood education, where I can continue to nurture and guide children through their learning journeys during these foundational years. I aspire not only to support children directly but also to serve as a resource and mentor for other educators, fostering collaboration and professional growth within the teaching community. Looking ahead, I envision creating an early learning program that is deeply reflective of the community it serves, one that values cultural diversity, family engagement, and equitable access to high-quality education.

Advice to future students:

My advice to future students joining this program is to embrace the journey with an open mind and a willing heart. There will be challenges but remember that every step you take brings you closer to your goal of becoming an educator. Lean on the support offered both one-on-one and in group settings because you are never alone in this process. Trust in your ability to grow, celebrate your progress along the way, and know that your presence in this field will make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families.

Now working at: Currently working as a preschool float teacher at a Montessori school, where I support classrooms across different age groups and gain hands-on experience with child-led learning.

Program highlights:

The highlights of my program have been the incredible support from professors and colleagues, as well as seeing how closely what we’re learning in class connects to what I observe daily at my school. It’s been rewarding to bridge theory and practice in such a meaningful way.

Future goals:

My future goals are to become a lead teacher and eventually step into a leadership role within early childhood education, such as a curriculum specialist or program coordinator.

Advice to future students:

Stay curious and open-minded throughout the program, and don’t be afraid to lean on your professors and cohort for support. The coursework is meaningful but can feel heavy at times, so good organization and balance are key. Remember to connect your assignments to your own teaching practice—it makes the learning richer and more relevant.

Now working at: Director and Owner of Lenora’s Place Early Learning Center

Program highlights:

As the Director and Owner of Lenora’s Place Early Learning Center, I have always been passionate about creating a strong foundation for young learners. My journey truly took shape during my time at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where I gained the knowledge and confidence to turn that passion into purpose.

At University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, I developed a deep understanding of how children learn and grow. Through my coursework, I explored teaching and curriculum design, social-emotional development, strategies for supporting children with diverse abilities, and the importance of family and community engagement. These experiences didn’t just stay in the classroom—they directly shaped how I lead my center today.

With this foundation, I have been able to strengthen the systems at Lenora’s Place, train and mentor staff with intention, and create meaningful partnerships with families. Every day, I see the impact of what I learned in action—children thriving in environments designed to support their academic, social, and emotional success.

Future goals:

Looking ahead, my vision continues to grow. I plan to expand Lenora’s Place Early Learning Center and open a school that serves students from early childhood through primary grades. I believe these early years are critical for developing the social-emotional and cognitive skills that set the stage for lifelong achievement. To further support this mission, I intend to return to University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to pursue a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction.

Advice to future students:

My advice to current and future students is simple: take full advantage of your experience. Ask questions, stay curious, and apply what you learn in real-world settings whenever possible. My time at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign didn’t just educate me—it transformed the way I think, lead, and serve my community.

What started as a dream has grown into a purpose-driven career, and it all began with the opportunities I embraced at the University of Illinois.