Today we’d like to introduce you to Frances Paul.
Hi Frances, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
It’s simple; there’s no room for mediocrity when educating the world’s future leaders. So why should I provide a mediocre curriculum and or learning experience? In my nineteen years as an Early Educator, I have committed to providing an extraordinary experience for the children I serve. From the meals I offered to the curriculum and other teachable opportunities. As an Early Educator, I have sacrificed and continue to dedicate my time, resources, and energy to the profession.
I began my career in Early Childhood Education in 2001, after several years of working in the Accounting profession. In 2001, I began taking classes at Bowie State University in the Pedology program, which encompasses Early Childhood Education, Social Work, and Counseling. After two semesters of coursework, I discovered the Childcare Management program at Prince George’s Community College and pursued my certification in Early Childhood Education through the Workforce Development and Continuing Education program. Thus, transitioning into the field of Early Childhood Education on a full-time basis.
I’ve always loved working with children and recognized it as a gift, particularly with younger children. As a result, I decided to continue my career helping to influence young minds. I began working at Silver Spring Presbyterian Church’s Children’s Center in 2003, where I received hands-on training. I began my tenure there as a teacher’s aide and, within 6 months, became a Senior Staff member. While at the center, I also served as the staff representative on the board and worked alongside the Assistant Director to maintain the food program. I continued my career at the Center until June 2006, when I left to realize my dream of opening a childcare center.
I currently serve as a coach and mentor for the Early Education Community through Behind Every Teacher, offering my expertise to newcomers to the profession and those who simply need encouragement. I have over 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, and hold an Associate’s degree in Business Administration from Montgomery College – Takoma Park, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Maryland.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No, the road hasn’t been smooth at all. There have been ebbs and flows, and with each change, lessons have been learned. Entrepreneurship, no matter the field, is never easy and requires persistence. Two of the biggest challenges were maintaining a consistent roster of children and finding competent, passionate staff.
The other struggles I encountered were finding time to stay abreast of changes in Early Education, maintaining certifications, and bouncing back from the effects of COVID-19. The biggest obstacle has been finding collateral to improve and expand my business, which led me to pivot in a different direction.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am an educator. My specialty is teaching the youngest learners and coaching adult learners. I especially love the young learners because it is a reciprocal relationship. I teach them, and they teach me. They are the most impressionable, fun, energetic teachers I’ve encountered. They challenge you to grow, heal, and question why you do what you do.
I am known for thinking and doing outside the box. I enjoy sharing my knowledge with everyone, regardless of age.
I am most proud of accomplishing my goal of becoming an entrepreneur in a profession I’m purposed for. I’m different from others because I know my superpowers and use them to help others. I’m also passionate about what I do, especially when it comes to children. They are so impressionable, and I feel that the general public does not respect that age group enough. I am also proud of the children I have served in my community and the relationships I’ve built as a result. Many of the children I had the pleasure of educating are now either in college or graduating from high school.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is to operate from a place of integrity and always show up authentically. When you operate from these two places, people trust you, and your reputation enters the room before you do. Years ago, I had the privilege of watching an interview with Don Cheadle by Henry Louis Gates, Jr., and he spoke these words that resonated with me and became my motto: “Mediocrity is Accepted, Excellence is Rare.” I’ve never forgotten that, and it is the lens through which I show up in life and in my profession. Excellence isn’t perfection, but it is a standard that we should all strive for no matter what we are doing.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Behind Every Teacher
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/frances-paul-14231a15
