Child care and early learning have one of the strongest communities in any professional field. It’s an industry built on togetherness and support where families, providers, and supporting organizations alike come together to benefit the youth across Washington State. In Kitsap County, Elisha Rhodes, Catalina María Escamilla Fonseca, and Tenika Williams are part of a strong early learning community connected by their work with the Imagine Institute.
MEET ELISHA, CATALINA, AND TENIKA
Elisha Rhodes began her journey toward licensure five years ago after the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) directed her to the Imagine Institute’s Imagine U program.
“I called DCYF to ask about licensing, and how to apply for that and they directed me to the Imagine Institute. I had to wait 3 months for the cohort to start, but I’m so glad I did. Imagine has helped me achieve so much success.” – Elisha
After graduating and becoming licensed, Elisha enrolled as a mentor with Imagine U in 2021 so she could help create the same community experience for future providers. Tenika Williams was an intern under Elisha before becoming a licensed child care provider herself.
Catalina Maria Escamilla Fonseca
“Working closely with Elisha Rhodes, I observed firsthand her dedication to creating a nurturing, supportive, and enriching environment for children and their families. Her innovative methods in early childhood education and commitment to family-centered care have left a lasting impact on me.” – Tenika
And even today, Elisha continues to mentor interns with Imagine U where Catalina María Escamilla Fonseca learns from her on her own way to become licensed.
“[I love] the opportunity to connect with other child care providers and the network that is created. [Elisha’s] been excellent. She has supported me greatly throughout this process. I’ve learned a lot from her daycare and her experience.” – Catalina
FINDING THE IMAGINE INSTITUTE
Often, the decision to pursue a profession as a licensed child care provider is driven by a community or your own children. Sometimes your area lacks viable options or enough providers. Other times, we find ourselves drawn to the mutual learning experience working with children provides. Starting your journey in early learning, though, can be daunting without a clear place to start.
“My 5-year anniversary of being a licensed child care provider is coming up this year. I originally started the journey to becoming a provider after I had my son and found myself with zero childcare options. It’s been a beautiful life project, and I have learned so much!” – Elisha
“[I heard about the Imagine Institute] through social media, while searching for support groups on how to start a daycare… With Imagine U, I feel like I’m following the right steps while also ensuring a quality and safe process toward obtaining my license.” – Catalina
PARTICIPATING IN IMAGINE U
The Imagine Institute thrives on a philosophy of liberatory design wherein providers inform the professional development and supports our organization offers. We aim to provide many methods of learning in our Imagine U program and connecting interns with practicing providers gives them valuable experience from professionals already succeeding in their desired field.
Sensory activities
“Being able to intern in an already established childcare space and hearing the process of growing the business inspired me so much. I took a lot of ideas with me that first year, and we continually improved upon those first ideas. As a mentor I love being able to share my success stories with my interns and really help them take their goals to the next level.” – Elisha
“Elisha’s emphasis on individualized learning, and fostering a sense of belonging for every child has not only broadened my understanding of child care within the family home but has also inspired me to incorporate similar values and practices within my center.” – Tenika
COMMUNITY AND ITS LASTING IMPACT
Many interns and mentors stay connected after their time in the Imagine U program. A big part of connecting existing professionals with incoming interns is developing community that resonates throughout the state. Elisha, Tenika, and Catalina are all based in Kitsap County working towards or already serving the child care needs of the region.
Outdoor play
“The principles I learned during my internship have empowered me to enhance the quality of care, engagement, and educational enrichment we offer to the families we serve.” – Tenika
“My intention from the beginning has been to build a community. As a mentor I can offer my community so many care options. We grow together, celebrate together, and work together. It’s a really lovely way to be involved.” – Elisha
“It’s helpful to share experiences with people who have more experience. Even though you contact the Department of Children and Families to learn about the requirements, there are many doubts that can be overwhelming during the process.” – Catalina
To learn about Imagine U and how we increase access to child care in Washington State with our relationship-based mentor program, you can visit https://imaginewa.org/imagine-u-mentor-program/.