Friday, Nov 18, 2016

Maria Rivera, assistant teacher at the Common Street Head Start program, has received the Outstanding Achievement in Early Education award from Massachusetts Association of Early Education and Care.

Maria has been an early educator for over 23 years, and her continued support for the children and families in her care is exemplary. Maria has worked in the classroom for GLCAC, Inc. since 1993.

Starting out as a Head Start parent, she seamlessly engaged with children and families as a volunteer. Administration soon recognized her natural ability to work with young children and provided her with an opportunity to work in the Head Start program as a substitute teacher.

From there she took courses in early childhood education and soon earned her Child Development Associate certificate and has maintained that certification for the past 20 years. Maria advanced in no time to an assistant teacher position and her impact has made life-lasting contributions to hundreds of children and families in the Lawrence and Methuen communities. Maria is our unsung hero, because she has positively influenced so many of our staff and families; she exemplifies teamwork, flexibility, dedication, and passion for what she does.

She has excellent communication skills and easily establishes relationships with people with whom she is working. She is an incredible team player and consistently goes over and above to support the Head Start program in any capacity! She provides a positive, nurturing environment to enhance children’s learning and development to their fullest potential. She has been instrumental in their growth. Maria’s enthusiasm and commitment to the children and families is evident. She is an asset to the program and the early learning community!

Congratulations Maria and thank you for all your hard work and dedication to our program, the children and families!