Tanya Lee
Tanya Lee has worked in Early Childhood Education for several years. She began her college studies at Sacred Heart University in Bridgeport, CT and later matriculated at Post University in Waterbury, CT, receiving a Bachelor’s Degree in General Studies with a focus on Early Childhood Education. She worked as an Asst. Teacher at Post University Childcare Center, and continued to move up in her career working for Bright Horizons Family Solutions, in Bethel, CT. Tanya worked her way from Teacher to Program Coordinator and then Asst. Director. Tanya’s passion for Early Childhood Education was expanded when she became the Director of Easter Seals’ All Kids Childcare in Waterbury, CT. This was a brand-new facility which catered to all types of children. She was instrumental in setting up classrooms, developing new teachers and lesson plans and ensuring that classrooms were a place for learning and observation in addition to always being a safe environment for children and staff. She also handled registration, finances and budgeting for the center, worked with maintenance/grounds keepers, and worked very closely with families. Tanya took a brief break from childcare and moved into a position in Human Services where she managed two group homes for adults with disabilities and later became a training manager. Tanya felt the tug in her heart to return to her profession in Early Childhood Education. Tanya is a resident of Waterbury, CT where she was born and raised. Tanya enjoys relaxing, decorating, gardening, and spending time with family and friends.
After researching and learning of the core values and interactions with children and colleagues, I was intrigued and wanted to be a part of this community.
To be honest it chose me. At a young age I had a teacher that would teach one type of way and it was really confusing for me to learn on her level and I said to myself, “I don’t want to be that type of teacher!” My sophomore year while attending Post University my Professor Mary McDonald, who ran the Early Childhood Education Department, saw my potential as an early childhood educator. She recognized my passion, excitement and creativity to teach outside of the box and helped me understand that children learn on so many different levels. I wanted to be that person that could change children’s learning and thinking styles. Everyone has the potential to learn on their level of understanding.
I’m always learning and researching ways to enhance myself professionally. I challenge myself to learn more about the center, and to how to be a more effective director for children, teachers, families and the community.
I enjoy relaxing, taking time for self care, and spending time with family and friends. And enjoying my hobbies of decorating, arts and crafts and watching movies.
My big sister has always encouraged, inspired, directed me to be all I can be. She has been a pillar in my life from a young age and even now in my adulthood.
When I had my in-person interview, the environment and people were very welcoming and smiling. My impression was that teachers and Administrative staff really enjoyed their jobs and had a sense of pride in what they were able to do with, and for, families and children.
Everything I learned about Friends Center was inspiring and I felt connected to the mission. I knew I wanted to be a part of this community.
I love the use of natural objects in the children’s environment to enhance the ability to learn using imagination and creativity. I admire the encouragement for teachers to bring their ideas to the learning experience into the classroom. The Mood Meter, which allows for self-reflection on emotions, is amazing. I find this to be a wonderful (and safe) way for educators to express emotions, especially any struggles that need to be addressed before it becomes a challenge or an impediment to their ability to be the best possible teacher for the children in their care.