For Natasha Gacinski, CEO of Catholic Charities of Central New Mexico, the Early Childhood Director Network has been an invaluable resource for staying grounded and connected to the work that fuels her passion. Natasha began her career in early childhood education as a toddler and Pre-K teacher, dedicating years to the rewarding challenges and joys of this age group. She progressively advanced into leadership roles, eventually becoming an early childhood center director and working for the New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD), overseeing more than 40 early childhood centers statewide.

Her experience reinforces her belief in the power of connecting to peers. “Being a part of this network keeps me tethered to the heart of our work,” Natasha shares. “At higher administrative levels, it’s easy to get bogged down in paperwork and disconnected from the classroom. The network ensures I stay connected to the challenges and triumphs of our field.”

Natasha has also given back to the network through mentorship, a role she views as foundational to growth. “Mentorship is about partnership,” she explains. “It’s built on a shared commitment to common goals, whether guiding a new director through their first year or helping someone achieve a degree. Showing up and being present is the foundation — it’s simple but tough in today’s world.”

A key element within the program is the informal ‘agreement’ between a mentor and mentee, which Natasha credits with enriching the experience. “It establishes mutual understanding. Both parties are committed, and compensating mentors for their time reinforces the importance of this work.” Through mentoring, Natasha has seen profound growth among professionals. “I’ve witnessed directors earn degrees, gain certifications, and step into leadership roles they never thought possible. That transformation inspires me every day to keep advocating and mentoring.”

As Natasha puts it, “We are shaping lives — not just of the children we care for but also of the professionals in this field. That’s a legacy worth investing in.”

Ready to expand your professional network and advance your leadership skills? Join the Early Childhood Director Network for access to mentorship, support, and resources that will take your career to the next level. 

Applications for the Director Network open December 1 and close December 15, 2024. Meetings begin in January 2025, and stipend payments are available for attendance. Learn more and apply now at www.ecnetworks.org/early-childhood-director-network.

Melinda Salazar has been an early childhood professional in her northern New Mexico community for over twenty years. She provides early childhood education at her home-based center, Family Daycare by Melinda. Located in Tierra Amarilla, her center is the only licensed facility within a 60-mile radius, serving as a vital education resource for families in the area.

Melinda recently embraced a new challenge, implementing a Pre-K curriculum to expand her program. “It’s been a blessing,” she reflects. “We were able to access a structured curriculum, new manipulatives, and resources, providing our kids with a more enriched learning environment.”

As a member of the Home-Based Provider Network, Melinda finds strength in shared experiences and collaborative learning. “It’s amazing to learn from others who understand the challenges we face and to gain tools that make my day-to-day easier,” Melinda shares. “Time is the biggest challenge,” she explains. “Balancing roles as an administrator, teacher, cook, and janitor is no small feat. I’ve gained practical strategies through the network, like creating rotating menus to save time.”

A natural mentor, Melinda often shares wisdom with fellow providers. “I always tell them to take time for themselves,” she says, recalling a colleague hesitant to close for Thanksgiving. You give so much but must also care for yourself to keep providing quality education and care.”

Melinda is motivated by the joy of seeing young children learn and grow. “They’re like little sponges, eager to learn. Being part of their journey is the most rewarding part of what I do,” she says. “When they come back years later and remember me, and give me a hug, I know I’ve made an impact.”

Applications for the Home-Based Provider Network open December 1 and close December 15, 2024. Meetings begin in January 2025, and stipend payments are available for attendance.

Don’t miss this opportunity to access resources, support, and a community of peers who understand your unique experience as a home-based provider. Join the Home-Based Provider Network today!