Employment

"My name is Anite Gelin and I began being part of LULAC in March 2003, as a parent and became a staff member on Nov 3rd, 2003. On Nov 3, 2022, I celebrated 19 years of work anniversary at the program working in different capacities starting from Assistant Teacher, Teacher, Head Teacher, Family Advocate, and Facilitator where I served in a supervisory role to the Infant/Toddler staff, a Coach and currently working as an Education/ Disabilities Coordinator for the past two years. Throughout those years I have assisted with the opening of two satellite sites in New Haven-LULAC Observatory and Crossroad. I had the opportunity to work at all centers and work with staff from diverse backgrounds and cultures. I have learned from all of them regardless of their positions. The program has become a second home for me as it does for others. I believe in its mission and how it has positively impacted the developmental learning of the children, creating that foundation of school readiness and supporting the families in the community that we serve."

"Hello! My name is Danielle Abel. I am excited to announce that I am the new Preschool Education and Disabilities Coordinator! I have been working in the field of Early Childhood Education for 24 (and counting) years. I was a Preschool Teacher for 23 years and a Preschool Coach for 1 year. I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree from Wheelock College, as well as my CT. Director’s Credential from Charter Oak State College. I love working with children, supporting teachers, and engaging with families! I have a daughter who is nine years old and plays ice hockey. If you can’t find me in a classroom, you will find me at the hockey rink!"

"Our solidarity chant, #LULACSTRONG, has become an inspirational chant of support. These past two years have been particularly challenging. As a family, LULAC has stood together and persevered for the families we serve, the community, and each other. Most child care facilities had to close, but LULAC remained open to support its community. Volunteers from LULAC distributed diapers to our families and boxes of disinfectant products to nearby child care facilities. The organization offered mindfulness consultants to staff who requested assistance.

LULAC has been my second home for six years. My daughter lived in Lulac for the first five years of her life. LULAC holds a special place in my heart. My child was loved on and taught to be her best self by her teachers. During those times when I was unsure of what to do as a first-time mother, they held my hand. The teachers and management inspired me. That's when I decided to apply for a teacher position and join the team.

The teachers at LULAC love the children so much. Teachers who think outside the box every day ensure that children develop appropriately through play and other fun activities."

"For the past two years, I have taught infants and toddlers at LULAC. From the moment I interviewed, the team greeted me warmly. Before I walked through the door, I remember lots of laughter. I knew this was more than just a job. I was thrilled when I received the job offer. The staff here is so kind and supportive. Even if it is just a rough morning, management is always there with a smile and encouragement. It takes a village to raise a child, and I am so proud of this one. My perspective as a parent has enabled me to see LULAC from another angle. About three months ago, my son graduated from our public preschool and still asks about his LULAC teachers.

In addition to the knowledge and growth they instilled in my son, he also found pure love and friendship. I am blessed to pass on this legacy of love, passion, and development to the children I teach. Let's see what the future holds. I thank LULAC for its guidance, and knowledge, and for offering me a second home. You show staff, children, and families only the best care."

“I enjoy working for LULAC because after raising three of my own children having the opportunity to work with infants and toddlers is my passion. Following the LULAC curriculum I can observe the growth and development in each child through the years. Coming to work and seeing my students each day puts a smile on my face.”