Name:               Meghan Hightower Smith, RECE, ECRT
Position:           Resource Consultant

How long have you worked for CISS/AFCS?
I began my career at Andrew Fleck Children’s Services almost 3 years ago at Making Connections Nursery School then moved into my role as Resource Consultant with CISS a year and a half ago.

Why did you choose this field?
I grew up the daughter of an ECE and a proud champion and strong advocate of the field at that (I mean, the President of CHEO spoke at her retirement party!). I started volunteering in child care centres when I was in my late teens and as the years went on I found it harder and harder to imagine being anywhere else, so I took the plunge and got my ECE diploma. I always had a particular interest in working with children with exceptionalities and through working with a Resource Consultant in the child care program where I was at the time I knew that was the job I wanted some day. I am thrilled to be in this role and supporting our community programs in quality inclusive care.

What’s your favourite part of the job?
I love that every day is different and there is always something new and exciting around the corner.

What is your hobby?
I LOVE to bake! It is my stress relief and I relish in the satisfaction of a delicious outcome.

What does inclusion mean to you?
Empowering self-advocacy for everyone, and a celebration of the diversity of our world!

Do you have a pet?
I currently have 2 cats, Nellie and Bella, and 1 dog, Hazel. Though I’m sure I’d have a zoo if I could!