Ferguson of Lighthouse Children's Advocacy Center speaks to SGTC Early Childhood class

South Georgia Technical College (SGTC) Early Childhood Care and Education students recently welcomed Rebecca Ferguson, a licensed marriage and family therapist at Lighthouse Children’s Advocacy Center, as a guest speaker for instructor Jaye Cripe’s Guidance and Classroom Management class and Victoria Kelley’s Social Issues class. Ferguson spoke to the students about the effects that childhood trauma and life situations can have on children’s lives and how this can affect their education. She provided insight to SGTC Early Childhood Care and Education students on the importance of the early years of life as a child develops trust and attachment to its caregivers, setting a foundation for confidence, happiness, development, and good physical health. “Mrs. Ferguson explained to our students how they, as future teaching professionals, can be aware of the long and short-term effects that these types of situations may have on children,” said adjunct instructor Victoria Kelley. “She made us aware of certain behaviors and signs that we may see in the classroom and tips on how to help. We’re grateful for her visit and the opportunity to share in her knowledge so we can help children succeed to the best of their ability.” Ferguson serves many children and families who come through the Lighthouse Children’s Advocacy Center, which is one of Southwest Georgia’s Children’s Alliance programs. Lighthouse provides comprehensive services to children suspected of child abuse, and the organization works with professionals in law enforcement, social services, the District Attorney’s office, local school systems, and the mental health and medical community to advocate for children. For more information about South Georgia Tech’s Early Childhood Care and Education program on the Americus campus, contact instructor Jaye Cripe at 229.931.2743 or jcripe@southgatech.edu. For more information about the Crisp County Center campus program, contact instructor Lisa Penton at 229.271.4062 or lpenton@southgatech.edu. South Georgia Technical College is currently registering students for spring semester on both the Americus and Crisp County Center campuses, which begins Monday, January 9th, 2017. There will be a registration and orientation session on Thursday, November 10th and another on Thursday, January 5th, 2017. South Georgia Technical College has a one-stop admissions process that allows students to apply, enroll, and register in the same day. Students also need to apply for financial aid as soon as possible if they have not already done so. To apply for admission to South Georgia Technical College in Americus call 229.931.2252 or 229.931.2760 or 1.800.928.0283 and in Cordele, call 229.271.4051. Students must complete an application for admission with a non-refundable $25 application fee. South Georgia Tech currently offers over 200 different associate degree, diploma, and short term technical certificate of credit classes. Enroll today and get ahead in your chosen career. For more information about South Georgia Technical College and its programs of study, visit the website at: www.southgatech.edu.