February 2020 Spotlight: Valerie martinez

This month we caught up with Valerie Martinez, an educator of 19 years based in Manzanola, Colorado.

Valerie's commitment to providing equitable access to childcare shines through. When asked about her special early childhood moment, Valerie said, "You can't hold back those tears during the final days of enrollment, especially when that parent graduates or that better job opportunity is reached with the help of child care!"

How did you get into early childhood?
It began by helping other families with their children,along with raising my own.

What is your favorite thing about working with children?
Observing their reaction when they have accomplished 'the task' on their own and feeling their joy.

W hat do you enjoy most about your job?
Guiding children to 'learn' and 'play' while providing a safe environment.

How do you impact children and families in Colorado?
By providing a consistent environment for their children to have a routine schedule indoors & outdoors while parent/guardians work or attend school.

What would you change about the early childhood field if you could?
I would just like to continue to see young mothers and fathers obtain quality child care, through various resources or grants, regardless of income.

As a thank you to Valerie for participating in this month's Spotlight, we are gifting her 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.