July 9, 2025
Story and photo by Joe Vinduska
For some people, describing why they enjoy their career may be challenging, but for Barton alum Courtney Barton, it’s very easy.
“If you love working with children, I highly recommend this industry,” she said. “The connection you make with children in a learning environment is so rewarding because they have so much love to give. Instilling positivity and confidence in young children will prepare them for the rest of their lives. I wanted to become an early childhood educator because it gave me the chance to make a difference, not only in the children’s lives but for their families.”
Barton graduated in 2021 and immediately found a job working at the Child Development Center on campus as a Lead Care Provider and credits her time at Barton with getting her prepared for the workforce.
“Barton helped prepare me for my career by teaching in depth early childhood milestones and creative ways to help them reach those goals,” she said. "Learning age-appropriate development techniques has helped me interact with children of all ages at my job. I love sharing my knowledge with our student workers to help them develop the best way to care for the children.
The college being local was something that Barton said helped her feel comfortable as she left high school and embarked on her college journey.
“My Barton experience really brought me out of my shell. Whether it was teachers or classmates, I did feel included and welcomed by them,” she said. “I enjoyed working as a student worker on campus because I was able to balance work and school life. One of my favorite things about going to Barton was having it so close to home. It really made things easier for me."
Barton currently specializes in infant care at the CDC and thoroughly enjoys what she is doing right now, but eventually might pursue a bachelor’s degree.
For more information on Barton’s education offerings, including elementary and secondary education, visit https://landing.gobarton.com/education.