June 2020: Roman H.

This month we're shining a spotlight on Roman Hollowell, the owner and director of Kids 4 Real, Inc. in Denver, CO. An early educator of 8 years, Roman made a decision to stop his career as a college administrator to take over his mother's business and continue her legacy when she passed away in 2012. "It's the best decision I ever made," he says.

When asked what he enjoys most about his job, he said, "Sending my kids off better than they came and developing my staff. Seeing my staff become the employees they strive to be is awesome!"

How did you get into early childhood? 
Assisting my mother with her business from time to time.

What is your favorite thing about working with children? 
Interaction with children and witnessing the development/growth. When your kids grow and come back to visit you is a plus too.
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What do you enjoy most about your job?
Sending my kids off better than they came and developing my staff. Seeing my staff become the employees they strive to be is awesome!

How do you impact children and families in Colorado? 
By serving their needs.

What would you change about the early childhood field if you could?
Higher wage/benefits for teachers. Teachers are underappreciated. Teachers are a launching pad for kids to get them started in the right direction. 0 to 5 years of age are critical.
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Do you have a special moment from working with children and families that you would like to share? Our annual graduations are always a special moment to see children and families smiling and grateful for the time teachers have spent with their child during the school year to make it to that point.

As a thank you to Roman for participating in this month's Spotlight, we are gifting him an entry membership to NAEYC and COAEYC! Do you know someone who works with children and families (teachers, therapists, administrators, cooks, bus drivers--anyone!) who deserves to be in the spotlight? Fill out this form or tweet your nomination to @coloradoaeyc using the hashtag #COAEYCspotlight.