Community Action is happy to announce the recipient of our 2024 October Staff Spotlight, Head Start Teacher Assistant, Melina Santiago-Borroel!
Her first nominator said, "Melina is my teacher assistant in Room 3 but is always helping other classrooms that need more help. She is constantly serving Room 4, stepping in so the lead teacher can step out and do paper work, taking care of the children and aiding in keeping a consistent schedule. When she's not in our room or room 4, you can find her helping out the toddler rooms so they can get the breaks they deserve and when any preschool room needs a helping hand she is the one who is in that room playing with the children and helping out. She shows inclusion and compassion every day and does it all with a smile on her face, we're so lucky to have her.“
Her second nominator said, "Melina is dependable, reliable, responsible and flexible. She is always called on to assist in many other classrooms even though she is assigned as the Room 3 infant asst. teacher. She is consistently kind, compassionate and happy to help in not only her classroom but all the classrooms. The kids love her and bc she is always going room to room, she knows many, if not all, of the children in the whole center. She exemplifies what it means to be responsible and dedicated to making a positive impact in her job on a daily basis."
We are so grateful to have staff members such as Melina that exemplify our mission, vision, and values! Recently we caught up with Melina to learn more about her and how she views her role at Community Action.
What is your favorite part about working at CAPRW?
I love working with people who are passionate about the well being of the children and families we work with. I enjoy coming in and having amazing coworkers. I love coming in and seeing my babies grow everyday.
Do you have a favorite memory about working with families?
When it's the end of the day I love the small conversations I create with families and learning new things about them.
How did you discover your passion for working with children?
I've been working with kids for a long time. I used to babysit at a young age before coming to the infant/toddler room. I have realized how much I enjoy this age.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time outside of work?
While I'm at home, I love to go out on walks and parks with my dogs and spend quality time with my family. I love going to concerts in my spare time and going to new places.
