Featured Teacher: Caroline Zomer

What interested Ms. Caroline about teaching at CDC was the Reggio Emilia philosophy presented in a Christian environment. “Prior to CDC, I knew very little about the Reggio Emilia philosophy, but after researching both the philosophy and CDC’s organization, I knew this was a company I wanted to work for,” she says.

The Charleston-native and University of South Carolina graduate embraces the replacement of a rigid and specific “curriculum” with one that’s fluid and accommodating, based on the children’s interests and the knowledge they obtain through their own discoveries in the natural environment. Yet the routine of “morning meetings” is a favorite: “They provide daily opportunities for the children to develop and enhance their language and literacy, greeting, listening, responding and problem-solving skills,” Ms. Caroline says.

Her biggest reward is the relationships she establishes with both the children and their families. “It’s truly rewarding to see children and their families acknowledge the role I played in their child’s development.” Ms. Caroline loves Gamecock football and being outside and near water. She credits her dad with her success. “He has played both the father and mother role in my life, and has made many sacrifices to ensure I became a well-rounded adult.”