n our “What ECE Looks Like” series, we will celebrate rich, diverse stories and show how educators and leaders in the early learning industry have worked to create change.   

At Early Learning Academies, we honor and celebrate the many ways people find themselves in a career in early childhood education (ECE). There is no “right” way to become an ECE professional—people take many paths to get to this profession and decide it’s the right one for them for many reasons.   

This month, we sat down with Tracy Willis, Regional Manager for Kid’s Country Learning Centers in Seattle, Washington. Tracy’s career in early childhood education began when she was in college, where she studied to be an elementary school teacher. After taking a break from teaching to focus on her family, Tracy found that her management experience in the service industry translated to the childcare environment successfully. We sat down with Tracy to learn more about her journey in ECE. 

Question: How did you get your start in early childhood education? 

I always wanted to be a teacher. I started working at a preschool program to pay for college. As I was working on my teaching degree, life happened. I got married and had children, then started working in restaurants for flexibility. When it was time to go back to work full-time, I saw a hiring ad for a preschool position and I thought, “I can do that.” It was the perfect opportunity. 

Question: What drew you to a leadership role in ECE? 

Funny you should ask! When I went in for the teacher position, they offered me a center director role. I had worked in management for restaurants, and because of my previous experience working in ECE they offered me the position.  

Question: How did your management experience in restaurants translate to a childcare center?  

In restaurants, you’re always moving and adjusting as things come up. You must adapt and teach others to do so as well. It’s the same in childcare—you have to be flexible and come up with solutions quickly. And I was so happy to be working with children again. It was the perfect role.  

Question: What’s your favorite part about leading teachers and ECE professionals?  

I love walking into a center and seeing teachers get excited to show me what they’re working on. Their passion for teaching inspires me. Teachers in early childhood education make such a profound impact on young learners because at these early ages is where it all starts, right?  

I also love watching educators grow. It’s such a rewarding experience to see teachers move up in their careers to Assistant Director and then Center Director.  

Question: What are the biggest changes you’ve seen in ECE since you began your career? 

Childcare centers used to focus on trying to control children. Now, early childhood education is all about facilitating joy and learning. The ECE profession now knows how important it is to help young children develop social-emotional skills. When I started, education in childcare was a lot more prescriptive and more focused on worksheets. Now, we’re more concerned with ensuring these young learners are confident, emotionally and socially prepared for the next step.  

Question: What advice do you have for anyone looking to transition into a leadership role in ECE?  

Remember that you’re making a positive impact on a child’s life every day. Focus on that. Grow your skill set in ways that help to encourage and motivate your team. Lastly, have fun! In this career, it’s important to model how to have fun to teachers and children alike. I love showing everyone that the classroom is a judgement-free zone. The children will appreciate you for who you are, so if you go in there and sing, they’re going to sing with you. The fun is what keeps you going through all the challenges.   

Ready to take the next step in your ECE career? See if Early Learning Academies is a fit for you by browsing our job openings.