Michelle Friedel has over 28 years of experience in education. Before joining Ulster BOCES as the Early Childhood Education Instructor, Michelle had acquired an array of experience in various educational settings. Such experience consists of being a camp coordinator for children, coaching, being the assistant director of a recreational summer program, teaching first and second grade, being a governess, working as a preschool teacher, becoming the education coordinator for a Head Start program, the child care coordinator for a child care center, and a workshop presenter for the local Child Care Council.
Due to her diverse knowledge, she is able to give insight to various perspectives and add credence to why one must advocate not only for the profession, but for the families and students one serves. Michelle maintains membership in various professional organizations such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Mid-Hudson Infant and Toddler Coalition. She serves as an advisor for the students in the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), and she is also a member of the UCCAC, Inc. Head Start Education advisory committee. This past April, Michelle was a presenter at the New York State Association for the Education of Young Children conference at Turning Stone.
About Us
Michelle holds a Master of Science in Education from The College of Saint Rose and attended Castleton State College for her undergraduate studies and earned a Bachelor of Science: Elementary Education/Special Education. She also completed the High Scope Lead Teacher training program. Michelle has earned her NYS Early Learning Trainer Credential along with being a Professional Development Specialist for the Child Development Associate credential (CDA).
Previously, Michelle was an instructor for the CDA credential at Ulster BOCES Adult Education Center. In 2007, she was the recipient of the Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching and was nominated for the 2016 New York State Teacher of the Year. Recently, Michelle has been a part of the Pre-K for All initiative under Mayor de Blasio's training of teachers in NYC. Michelle was also selected to be a part of the NYS Pyramid Model Cadre of trainers to promote social and emotional competence of infants and young children to professionals in the field. Michelle’s amazing profession allows her to continue her passion while inspiring others, and being a life-long learner.