Nicole became the Executive Director at Homestead Christian Academy, an early education center in Homestead, FL, in 2009 and works closely with at-risk children daily. She has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and over 11 years of experience in the field of education. Nicole's passion for children led her to create a safe haven for foster
Nicole became the Executive Director at Homestead Christian Academy, an early education center in Homestead, FL, in 2009 and works closely with at-risk children daily. She has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and over 11 years of experience in the field of education. Nicole's passion for children led her to create a safe haven for foster children at HCA. Soon after, she created The Children's Alliance of Florida to expand services to these foster children and other at-risk children and their families.
Maria is an Early Childhood Specialist with over 20 years of experience in working with at-risk children and youth, teachers, and directors. Through various quality improvement programs, she has worked as a Literacy Coach, Technical Assistance Coach, and Quality Improvement Specialist. Maria is currently a private consultant working with
Maria is an Early Childhood Specialist with over 20 years of experience in working with at-risk children and youth, teachers, and directors. Through various quality improvement programs, she has worked as a Literacy Coach, Technical Assistance Coach, and Quality Improvement Specialist. Maria is currently a private consultant working with early learning centers as well as local and state agencies serving our youngest children. She is dedicated to working with programs as they strive to meet the needs of the most vulnerable children and families.
Alison Gonzalez is an early childhood advocate with over 20 years of experience in the field. She has managed and worked with several quality initiatives in our community. As a passionate educator, a lifelong learner, and a mother of two, she is committed to working collaboratively with early learning and youth programs to create and sust
Alison Gonzalez is an early childhood advocate with over 20 years of experience in the field. She has managed and worked with several quality initiatives in our community. As a passionate educator, a lifelong learner, and a mother of two, she is committed to working collaboratively with early learning and youth programs to create and sustain high-quality experiences and supportive environments for all children and families especially those in underserved areas of our community.
Melinda Perry has been working in the field of early childhood education for 20 years. She has held various positions including Early Interventionist, Quality Improvement Specialist, Education Specialist and consultant. Adopted at an early age, Melinda knows first-hand the importance of a loving and nurturing home. She is an advocate for
Melinda Perry has been working in the field of early childhood education for 20 years. She has held various positions including Early Interventionist, Quality Improvement Specialist, Education Specialist and consultant. Adopted at an early age, Melinda knows first-hand the importance of a loving and nurturing home. She is an advocate for social emotional learning and enjoys helping teachers create positive environments. Melinda is married and has two children. With her youngest daughter having severe food allergies, Melinda also actively advocates for and supports children and adults with food allergies in the community.
Norma Schwartz has over 15 years of experience as a teacher, research analyst, coach, professional development specialist, and advocate in the Early Childhood field across the United States. She currently serves as Early Childhood Chair on the Miami Dade County Council PTA/PTSA Board, At-Large Board member for the Florida Association of
Norma Schwartz has over 15 years of experience as a teacher, research analyst, coach, professional development specialist, and advocate in the Early Childhood field across the United States. She currently serves as Early Childhood Chair on the Miami Dade County Council PTA/PTSA Board, At-Large Board member for the Florida Association of the Education of Young Children and is also the Leader for the Statewide Advocacy Chapter. Norma is also a Citizen Review Panel member at Florida Foster Care Review. She is committed to partnering with various organizations within the community to ensure all children and families have an opportunity to succeed. Norma holds a B.A. in Liberal Studies/Education and a M.S. Curriculum and Instruction from Florida International University.
Kenia Y. Najera was born in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. After immigrating to the United States in her early twenties, Kenia obtained her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Florida International University, where she later worked as a Quality Improvement Specialist and Coach for early education programs in Miami-Dade County. After working
Kenia Y. Najera was born in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. After immigrating to the United States in her early twenties, Kenia obtained her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Florida International University, where she later worked as a Quality Improvement Specialist and Coach for early education programs in Miami-Dade County. After working in the field of education for 22 years, Kenia has developed a passion for advocating for children's rights. The African proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child," encompasses her view that the rights of a child are the responsibility of not only the family, but the local community as well.
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