The Instructional Coaches are required to have a Masters’ degree, a minimum of six years of experience as early childhood education classroom Teachers and possess early childhood education content expertise with the ability to teach adult learners. In addition to developing and facilitating observation and research-based professional development, their primary work is to coach, mentor, model for and provide technical support and assistance to classroom Teachers designed to increase their classroom practices.
Porter-Leath's Teacher Excellence Program also has a specialized focus on social-emotional training for early childhood educators. In order to perform at their best, early childhood educators must understand young children's ability to regulate their emotions and to relate to the world. Children's social environment can affect their classroom behavior and academic performance long after preschool, so it is critical that all educators are able to model responsible emotional management, decision making and relationship skills.
Marilyn Donaldson M.Ed
Teacher Excellence Program Manager
Marilyn Donaldson is Porter-Leath’s Teacher Excellence Program Manager under the directions of the VP of Early Childhood Services. She provides direct supervision to all of TEP's Relief Teachers and supports them as they implement service plans, policies, and procedures relating to Early Childhood and Child Development, School Readiness, Parent Engagement, Community Partnerships, and Disabilities services.
Marilyn has been part of Porter-Leath’s Teacher Excellence Program since 2017. She believes that every child regardless of gender, race, or income should have the opportunity to learn in a setting that supports every child at Porter- Leath the opportunity to leave Kindergarten ready. She is passionate about serving Shelby County children, NEXT Memphis Community Childcare and Early Head start families.
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