Instructor: Dr. Joanna Cemore

Welcome to CFD 650! I have lived in Springfield since 2004 and very much enjoy the area, the university, and the people I’ve met here. I have spent most of my life either in Iowa or Florida before moving here to Missouri.

I grew up in Iowa and when I graduated high school my family moved to Panama City Beach, Florida. I earned my B.S. in Family, Child, and Consumer Science from Florida State University, then started teaching preschool and working on my M.S. in Early Childhood Education. After finishing that degree I started working in the public schools as a special education teacher and subsequently earned certification in that as well. After several years teaching I moved to Iowa and attended Iowa State University. There I earned an M.S. in Human Development and Family Studies: Child Development (specialization) and my Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Studies: Child Development and Early Childhood Education (specializations).

One thing you may notice about me in this class is that I LOVE theories – to understand children and help others understand children is exciting to me. I realize that some of you may not be that crazy about theories – but hopefully you will gain a working knowledge that will help you in your career – and who knows, if you don’t already, you might just end up loving theories too!

I have more than 16 years of experience in the field teaching young children and adults. I enjoy everything about working with others, whether it is college students, community partners, or young children. It is satisfying, challenging, and ever-changing. I am excited to hear about all of your experiences and backgrounds that you bring to our online community.