A change is needed

I am a single parent of three wonderful children. A week ago I had to leave my job and am now a former preschool teacher. I love helping kids and shaping their foundation for a bright future, but sadly was left in a crossroads. Should I stay working as an early educator with low income, which I enjoyed, or leave so I can pay my bills?

My center, like most centers across New Mexico, does not get enough funding to support the hard work of the wonderful teachers. Many teachers across the state are barely making ends meet, hence the higher turnover rates. Other employees and I have had to be dependent on support from the state when our income just doesn’t cut it. Also, a small handful are starting to donate plasma to fill their financial gap. That is ridiculous!

My center, like most centers across New Mexico, does not get enough funding to support the hard work of the wonderful teachers.

I have also had to experience nonsense when trying to get a contract from the New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) for my children. I have been ping-ponged between both CYFD and other government agencies when trying to get a contract back-dated, even though I provided all documents on time. Both CYFD and other government agencies have poor communication with clients and rarely give a clear precise answer. I am expected to take the fault for their human error and am treated as though I am just seeking a hand-out. In the end, when it was concluded that I did qualify for assistance, I had to prove that I made an effort to get everything resolved. Change is clearly needed.

These are some of the reasons why I am a member of Early Educators United, but building power by standing together has been a part of me since childhood. My mother exposed me to how the power of people can make an impact. From a young age I would tag along with her to meetings, rallies, canvassing, and lobbying for the Albuquerque Teachers Federation (ATF). When I was younger I did not completely understand the reasons for organizing and coming together, but I did understand the passion, drive, and ability to work together as a group to make change in the education system. As I got older I understood what ATF and its members were striving for. I got my own opportunity to be part of change with EEU. I’m proud that my mother set a great example for me and now I can help be a voice for issues that I care deeply about.