Her Story
About Jocelynn
Jocelynn Summers serves as the Program Coordinator of the Child Care Center at the District of Framingham Public Schools in Framingham, Massachusetts. She began her career in early childhood education in 1986 in the Philippines as a Montessori teacher. After earning her master's degree in early childhood education at the University of the Philippines, she opened her own school in 1988 or 1990 and managed it for 15 years. Summers then moved to Croatia, where she worked for 12 years as a school coordinator at an international kindergarten. After relocating to Massachusetts, she restarted her career as an assistant teacher, obtained her certification, and advanced through positions in Braintree, Boston, Natick, and Framingham. She is a former president of the Association for Childhood Education International Philippine Branch from 1997 to 1999 and speaks both English and Filipino. Summers attributes her professional success to the inspiration of her mother, a dedicated teacher, and emphasizes values of integrity, commitment, and dedication in her work.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jocelynn
01What do you attribute your success to?
My success comes from the inspiration of my mother who was a dedicated teacher. When I was young I saw her teaching and I wanted to be like the American teachers I observed teaching my brothers in vacation Bible school. Her strength and dedication taught me to rise up to challenges.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't give up. Find out where your career path is heading. If this is where God is leading you then go for it. Sharpen your skills, read a lot, get as much experience as you can. For women my age, don't let your age define you. It's what you can bring to the table that matters.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The challenge is encouraging more aspiring child educators who are truly dedicated rather than just doing the job for money. The opportunity is to train more teachers, leave a legacy, and empower more early childhood educators as there is a shortage in America.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity is doing the right thing even when no one is looking. Respect for yourself and for the career path God has deemed for you. Commitment and dedication are key. I take every opportunity to shine rather than seeing it negatively.
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