My Head Start Story: Gladys

Story submitted by: Gladys, Head Start parent & Staff

In 1991, I moved to a small town with my family, hoping to leave behind the chaos of the big city. We built our home, started our life together, and dreamed of giving our children a better future. When my middle child turned four, I first heard about Head Start. Around that same time, my youngest daughter became very sick and had to be hospitalized. While applying for medical help, I received a flyer about Head Start—and that little piece of paper changed our lives forever. My son was enrolled, and he thrived. He especially loved the weekly cooking project. I’ll never forget the Saturday morning he woke me up at 6 a.m., proudly telling me he had made scrambled eggs all by himself. My heart stopped for a second as I rushed to check the kitchen—but instead of a fire, I found a smiling little boy who had discovered confidence and independence through his Head Start experience.

I got involved right away, volunteering in the classroom. When my youngest daughter was old enough to enroll, I dedicated even more time. Head Start encouraged me to use my voice, to step into leadership, and to believe that I could make a difference. Through Policy Council, I served as Secretary, Vice President, and President. I was honored to attend a National Head Start Conference in Puerto Rico, my birthplace—a moment that showed me how far I had come. But the greatest gift Head Start gave me wasn’t just opportunities for my children. It gave me a voice. It gave me my GED, the chance to take college courses, and the courage to pursue a degree. It gave me a career path I never imagined. From being a mom looking for support, to working in centers for 10 years, to becoming an Early Head Start Home Visitor and now a Home-Based Supervisor—Head Start built me. Today, I’ve been part of Glenn County Head Start for over 25 years, and I am still grateful for every moment. Head Start gave me everything: a voice, an education, a career, and a purpose.