Marisol Echeverria, a dedicated mother of five, is a former parent in the Early Head Start (EHS) Program at McKinney’s Lawson Early Childhood School. Born hearing, Echeverria began to lose her hearing at a young age, leading her to an incredible journey. Despite facing obstacles, Echeverria’s resilience and determination have shaped her family's extraordinary story.
Introduced to the EHS program by her sister, Echeverria found support in a community dedicated to empowering every single parent and their children. Through the program, she received invaluable guidance and assistance from staff members like Elaine Seals, Becki Cecil, and Dorothy Ellinghaus, who played instrumental roles in her children's educational journey.
“We received a lot of help from Seals and that’s when I knew this was the right school for my daughter Emily,” said Echeverria. This initial support blossomed into lasting relationships with other staff members.
Her daughter Emily, now 10, started in the program as an infant. Echeverria has been actively involved with the EHS community for a decade. She communicates with teachers mainly through writing and finger spelling, while some staff know basic sign language.
Her dedication to staying connected with the EHS community highlights the importance of ongoing support and relationships in educational environments. The school's inclusive approach has made a significant difference in her family's life, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding.
"I'm very happy about that because I'm able to communicate," she says.
Her children are making significant progress, learning English at school and Spanish at home. This bilingual upbringing has enriched their cultural identity and cognitive development, giving them a broader perspective and better communication skills. The ability to navigate multiple languages is a valuable asset in today's interconnected world.
"My kids know three languages: ASL, Spanish, and English," Echeverria proudly shared. Her commitment to their multilingual education reflects her determination to give them the best opportunities in life. She believes that being proficient in multiple languages will open doors for them in the future and help them connect with diverse communities.
Despite the challenges, such as maintaining focus, Echeverria is optimistic about their continued development.
The EHS program has been a pillar of support for Echeverria. "I appreciate all the help, but I keep needing support with my kids," she admits. Her dreams for her children are rooted in motivation and breaking barriers. "I want to push them to be better and work hard for a brighter future."
The dedication shown by the EHS teachers to learn ASL has profoundly impacted Echeverria. "I'm absolutely happy. That's why I love this school," she says. The EHS program's inclusive approach has benefited both Echeverria's children and Echeverria herself. Her children were well-prepared for elementary school, while Echeverria gained valuable skills for her role as a parent.
"[EHS] gives you the tools to have a better future and better opportunities," she says.
Marisol Echeverria's journey with the Early Head Start Program at McKinney's Lawson Early Childhood School is a testament to the power of inclusive education. Her story illuminates the profound impact that tailored support and understanding can have on a family's trajectory. Through the challenges of hearing loss and language barriers, Echeverria has not only navigated her own path but has also paved the way for her children's success in a multilingual world.
The EHS program's commitment to inclusivity, exemplified by staff members learning ASL and providing comprehensive support, has created a ripple effect of positive change. It has empowered Echeverria to be an active participant in her children's education and a valuable contributor to her community. Her experience underscores the vital importance of early childhood education programs that embrace diversity and adapt to the unique needs of every family.
As Echeverria continues to advocate for her children and inspire other parents, her story serves as a powerful reminder that with the right support, determination, and resources, barriers can be transformed into stepping stones. The lasting impact of the EHS program on the Echeverria family demonstrates that investing in inclusive early education not only shapes individual lives but strengthens entire communities, fostering a more understanding and connected society for generations to come.