Head Start Provides More Than Learning

Story: Maribel Salmon, Senior Associate, Family Engagement, New Mexico

New Mexico (May 8, 2025)

As an ESL and GED teacher, I was always humbled by my students’ profound commitment to improving their quality of life so their kids could have more possibilities. But I was incredibly frustrated by all the obstacles that stood in their way. 

Not so much academically – these were very intelligent and hardworking people. Most were grown adults with full-time jobs, children and other responsibilities to juggle… and yet they showed up every day and gave it their best effort. 

To have peace of mind while they were in class, it was essential for my students to secure dependable, affordable and high-quality child care. On top of that, they needed enough income to feed their families and assurance they’d all be safe from unfair immigration policies.  

My own children attended Early Head Start. As a single mom working toward my college degree, these essential services were a godsend. My son’s teachers were compassionate and kind – when my mother passed away, they even helped me prepare him for the funeral.  People don’t realize how much love our kids receive in these programs. 

I’m proud to work for SCAN because in my mind, there couldn’t be a more noble cause than empowering parents and caregivers to speak up and do better for their children.  

That’s why I’m advocating for Congress to protect Head Start.