Jessica Legere
In 2004, Jessica “Jessie” Legere graduated from the University of Connecticut with her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, and again in 2005 with her Master’s degree in Education. From there, she worked as a Kindergarten substitute before becoming a first-grade teacher. However, Jessie soon found out that teaching at the elementary level, while incredibly rewarding, wasn’t her true passion. In 2006 she began her journey in the field of early childhood education, and since then has served as both a preschool teacher and program director, sharing her love for this field with countless fellow educators and families. Jessie believes in starting each day with positivity and mindfulness, treating each interaction she has with others with respect and the intention to understand, and in learning something new each day.
The simplest answer for me is that Friends Center’s “why” aligned with my “why!”
I was first introduced to the Friends Center for Children in early 2019 when I received the opportunity to visit and learn more about RULER as an approach to social and emotional learning, and how emotional intelligence is supported and strengthened within the program. Upon entering this facility, I recall being immediately aware of how intentional the surroundings were, each aspect painting a picture of the lived values and priorities of the program. Whether it was providing sinks for hand-washing as soon as one enters the building to ensure the health and safety of the community, or prominently displaying a Mood Meter that encourages adults to self-reflect upon our own emotional well-being each day, or witnessing educators in-tune to the emotions of the children, taking advantage of teachable moments, and encouraging risk and the expansion of new ideas, I felt inspired, I felt motivated, and I felt connected. I view Friends Center for Children as a true example of what early childhood education should and could look and feel like when you gather together impassioned people with a shared mission and vision.
I was very fortunate to experience childhood feeling safe, loved, and free to experience the world with joy. As such, childhood and the preservation of that special time has always held a cherished space in my heart. As I moved into adulthood, I knew that being an educator, holding tight to the importance of the joy and authenticity of childhood, was what I wanted to be. Early Childhood in particular is astounding to me, not only in terms of brain development and all the incredible and inspiring things children can do, but in that it is a time of wonder- of curiosity- of genuineness- and this short period of time in one’s life is the most critical in laying the foundation for a child’s future.
My favorite thing about Friends Center is the people. Each Friends Center community member chooses to share their gifts with us each and every day, and I am forever learning something new! I am grateful to be surrounded by such nurturing and dedicated educators and visionary leaders who uphold the New Haven community with dignity, a commitment to equity and anti-racism, anti-bias education and systems, and appreciation that it so very much deserves.
Friends Center is my first experience within the New Haven early childhood education community, and I am so thankful that my career has led me to this great city! An area that I am committed to growing in is finding my voice and building relationships within this community, as well as continuing to develop my knowledge of the various programs, services, and resources that are available to the children, families, and educators within New Haven.
On the weekends, I enjoy taking spin classes, hiking and being surrounded by lots of trees, shopping for anything vintage, listening to music and attending concerts, reading- especially poetry, and spending time with friends and family.
My mentor at Friends Center is Miriam Johnson, Head of Programs. Miriam’s gentle and patient leadership, grace during times of challenge, insightful wisdom, and ability to ask questions that encourage deep reflection within myself have truly helped me grow, both as a leader and as an individual.
My favorite memory at Friends Center would have to be taking the children for neighborhood walks. Neighborhood walks are a way that we support children in getting to know their local community. It also provides opportunities for both intentional and spontaneous learning and conversation. Friends would eagerly share their observations, ask questions, and seek out familiar patterns and landmarks within their surroundings, and it led to the discovery of so many new interests that can then be brought in and weaved into our emergent curriculum! I remember these moments as times filled with laughter, inquisitiveness, and a-ha moments!