Thompson brings lifelong passion to MCC Early Education Technology Program
Michelle Thompson spent nearly three decades helping young children learn and grow
through Head Start. Now she's preparing future educators who will do the same.
As the new program coordinator of Meridian Community College's Early Education Technology Program, Thompson says it feels like coming home.
"Early education is my heart," she said.
Thompson is steering the program through several changes meant to expand its reach: a new name, more online courses, and a planned transfer pathway to Mississippi State University-Meridian.
Formerly called Early Childhood Education Technology, the program trains students to care for, teach and guide children from birth through age 8. Thompson said the new name better captures that scope and pushes back on the notion that early education is just playtime.
"Play is a very important part of learning," she said. "But this is also an instructional program. Students learn child development, teaching methods, and how to build a strong foundation for learning."
Students can earn an associate of applied science degree or a career certificate, and graduates go on to work in child care centers, preschools, and other public, private, corporate or faith-based settings.
Coursework blends instruction with supervised labs, practicums and work-based learning. All classes are offered online, while required hands-on experiences, labs, and practicums are completed in approved early education settings. This flexible format is designed to support nontraditional and working students by allowing them to complete coursework online while gaining valuable real-world experience in the field.
"The online format gives students an opportunity to work and still earn their degree," Thompson said.
MCC is also working with Mississippi State University-Meridian on a transfer agreement aimed at letting MCC graduates apply more credits toward a bachelor's in early education or elementary education.
The program partners with the Lauderdale County School District, Meridian Public School District, Head Start programs and local childcare centers to give students places for labs, practicums and other field work.
"Early education gives children a strong foundation," Thompson said. "If we can identify needs and provide support early, we can help children be better prepared for school."
Thompson has devoted 42 years to working with young children, families, and future educators. She spent 28 years helping children learn and grow through Head Start before continuing her early education journey at Meridian Community College through the Best Early Education Practices (BEEP) Project.
Even while serving as a project and grants manager at the College, Thompson remained connected to the field by teaching Early Education courses as an adjunct instructor.
Since taking over the program, she's also given its Reed Hall classroom a facelift including new paint and reorganized classroom setting.
"We are giving them the tools they need," Thompson said. "Then they can take those tools into early learning settings and help children build that foundation."
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu/earlyeducation.