For Alyssa Walker, beginning her education career, and her own educational journey, at San Jon Elementary School in the historic Route 66 town of San Jon, New Mexico, has been especially meaningful. “Now I get to teach in the same place where my path truly began,” she said. A first-generation college student, Alyssa walked across […]
The New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD), in partnership with CNM Ingenuity, supports new and experienced early childhood education professionals to help them obtain their Early Childhood certificates or degrees. Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must enroll in a New Mexico college or university before applying. Click here to see a list of participating […]
Alysha M. Ramos always knew she was meant to work with children, but it wasn’t until she became a single parent that she stepped fully into that calling. “I needed to make an important choice because I was on my own,” she recalled. That decision led her into early childhood education, first with toddlers in […]
Valeria Holloway’s journey through the field of early childhood education is like a powerful river, fed and strengthened by multiple streams of New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD) programs. Each program flows into the river, creating a stronger, more dynamic current, enriching early childhood professionals’ skills and knowledge at every bend. From […]
Rin is a dedicated, bilingual coach passionate about supporting early childhood educators in New Mexico. Through the Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD) Scholarship and Pay Incentive Programs, in collaboration with CNM Ingenuity, Rin helps educators access financial support, including scholarships and pay incentives. Rin’s mission is to ensure educators feel valued and supported […]
Rebecca Sandoval is a shining example of perseverance and dedication in early childhood education. A proud member of San Felipe Pueblo, Rebecca used the New Mexico Early Childhood Education & Care Department (ECECD) Scholarship to pursue her educational goals and build a meaningful career. Rebecca graduated with her Associate of Arts degree in Early Childhood […]
Mikal Nih’s journey in early childhood education is fueled by her passion for teaching and learning. As a lead infant toddler teacher at San Juan College Childcare Center in Farmington, she is deeply invested in helping young toddlers grow. “They’re learning to be independent while still wanting hugs and cuddles. It’s the best,” she says, […]
The New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD), in partnership with CNM Ingenuity, is dedicated to supporting infant-toddler teachers through scholarship and pay incentive programs and professional development. Initiatives like the Infant Toddler Teacher Pay Parity Program provide essential financial support, enabling infant-toddler educators to advance their careers, pursue further education, and balance […]
Hannah is one of the passionate and dedicated coaches behind the success of early childhood professionals in New Mexico through the ECECD Scholarship and Pay Incentive Programs in partnership with CNM Ingenuity. Her mission is clear: “By empowering educators, we’re not just supporting individuals—we’re building stronger communities.” Hannah guides educators through the scholarship application process […]
Silvia’s journey in early childhood education took a transformative turn when she received the ECECD Scholarship. “I was very excited when I found out I got the scholarship. “I felt like a weight was lifted off my shoulders,” Silvia shared. Before the scholarship, the financial burden of tuition made her doubt whether she could continue […]
