Eric Bucher was in search of a degree program that met his needs as a working student, offered quality experiences, and provided multiple options to access courses. Eric said, “PVCC was that place! The Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education program offered night and Saturday classes that were flexible to the schedules of early childhood educators like me.” At the time, Eric was working with young children and families as an early childhood educator.
As a first generation college student, Eric was anxious. From his very first class, his worries about whether he could complete his assignments on time; would he be able to apply his classroom learning to his work with children; and would it be worth the investment of his time and energy, were met with support and understanding by the faculty. “All of the professors had student success at the top of mind and took the time to build positive relationships with students,” Eric said.
Eric credits Christie Colunga and Ana Stigsson, Early Childhood Education faculty at PVCC, with providing the advising and support that helped him grow as a lifelong learner. They went above and beyond to ensure students experienced quality, relevant, practical content and developed their skills as reflective, thoughtful early childhood educators. Eric shared, “They saw in me what I did not yet see in myself – the ability to be a leader in my community and to design a more desirable and equitable early care and education field in Arizona.” Eric credits their visionary program for his “development of a deep understanding of what could be possible for children, families, and educators” which made a difference in his preschool program and community. Through course content, Eric learned how to seek the strengths, interests, and ideas of the children and families he worked with. Eric said, “These principles helped promote diversity and equity and amplified the vibrancy that contributes to strong communities.”
As a recipient of the statewide First Things First College Scholarship, the cost of tuition as well as course materials and books was covered, making the college-going experience seamless and accessible. Eric was involved with the HANDS Club. This early childhood organization offered multiple opportunities to become involved in community events and participate in reflective professional development.
Eric credits his experience at PVCC in “helping me to grow into the early childhood professional I am today.” After successfully completing his Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education at PVCC, he completed a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood and a Master’s of Education in Early Childhood Leadership from Northern Arizona University and a Doctorate of Leadership and Innovation from Arizona State University.
Dr. Eric Bucher is the program manager at Madison Elementary School District in Phoenix where he leads the district’s preschool and community education programs. Eric also serves as the Executive Director of Arizona Association for the Education of Young Children (AzAEYC). In this role, he works to advance equity, racial and social justice, and elevate the voices of early childhood educators.