Early Childhood Education

Erica holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from SUNY New Paltz. She also holds two Master of Science degrees, one in Literacy (Birth-6th grade) and another in Curriculum Development and Instructional Technology, both from the University at Albany. Erica has a Permanent Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education (Nursery-6th grade) and a Literacy Specialist Professional Certificate (Birth-6th grade).

Experience:

Erica, an experienced educator with a strong commitment to community service and professional development, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our faculty. Her journey in the field of education is characterized by a passion for empowering students and a dedication to supporting her fellow educators.

Prior to joining FMCC, Erica started her career in education by teaching preschool in 1990. She then spent 24 years as an educator in the City School District of Albany. Her roles included serving as a classroom teacher and a reading specialist. During her tenure in Albany, she took on the role of mentoring and supervising student teachers from Hudson Valley Community College and the College of Saint Rose.

Erica's educational journey continued with her training at the Child Research and Study Center at SUNY Albany, where she honed her skills as a Teacher Leader. During this time, she provided valuable staff training in the Interactive Strategies Approach.

As a Wilson Reading Teacher, Erica has been instrumental in instructing students with learning differences, both in clinical and group settings. Her commitment to inclusive education and her ability to adapt teaching methods to diverse learning needs have made a lasting impact on her students.

Erica's involvement in the community extends beyond the classroom. Her dedication to community service projects, one of which was highlighted in The Leader Herald, exemplifies her commitment to making a positive impact outside of her professional role. Her work in the community demonstrates her belief in the value of education beyond the traditional classroom.

Erica is an active member of several professional associations, including:
· Associate Degree Early Childhood Teacher Educators
· National Association for the Education of Young Children
· New York Association of Early Childhood Teacher Education
· New York Association for the Education of Young Children

Erica's passion for education is reflected in her diverse course offerings.
 Her areas of expertise include:
· Introduction to Early Childhood/Childhood Education
· Foundations of Education
· Safety, Health, and Nutrition
· Early Childhood Curriculum
· Infant and Toddler Care and Education
· Children's Literature, Language and Literacy
· Creative Arts for Early Childhood
· Exceptional Learners
· Child Psychology