Retiree Debra Ward Recognized
The Cerritos College Board of Trustees recognized retiree Debra Ward, director of
Child Development Center, for her many years of service to the College on June 12.
Debra Ward leaves a lasting legacy at Cerritos College. Through her tireless work as director of the Cerritos College Child Development Center over the last 18 years, and throughout her 35-year career in working with children, she has impacted the lives of thousands of children and families, strengthening our community, and giving children the opportunity to discover the world and their place in it.
Debra brought the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education to the Cerritos College campus, an approach that views children as competent, capable citizens of their community, and that views education of its citizens as an inherent responsibility of the community. This approach aligns beautifully with the mission of the community college.
The Reggio Emilia approach is transformational in the life of a child, as it empowers them to explore and learn, to try and do, and to co-create a community with their teacher and fellow students, in which they will thrive. Debra has created this transformational space and guided her staff in delivering this extraordinary experience to our community’s children.
"Debra’s dedication to Cerritos College has made this campus and our greater community a better place," said Dr. Elizabeth Riley, instructional dean of Health Occupations. "We have been so fortunate to have benefited from her expertise, her creativity, and her passion for education, which has helped us to serve our community in a multitude of ways. Debra, you are an inspiration to us all, and your impact here will be felt for generations to come."
Thank you, Debra, for your service and best wishes in your retirement!
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