The Florida Head Start Association Announces Seven Newly Elected Members to the Board of Directors
Tallahassee, FL., September 13, 2019 - The Florida Head Start Association (FHSA) is pleased to announce the addition of seven new members to the FHSA Board of Directors: Sonya Hill, Angela Iudica, Dr. Maite Riestra-Quintero, Mary Grace Sabella Romo, Angel Maldonado, Cindy Kaier, and Janet Ranaldi. Elections were held August 15 - August 22 to fill the three open Regional Director and 4 Director-At-Large Seats. These board seats are for a two-year term.
The membership elects directors from a slate of self- nominations and vetted by the Nominating Committee in advance of the election to ensure a fair representation of the association and skills.
We are happy to announce this year's additions to the FHSA Board of Directors and are excited for the passion and expertise they will bring in helping to lead the association.
 Central Director, Sonya HillOrange County Head Start, Division Manager, Head Start Director
Why do you want to serve on the FHSA Board of Directors?
I am a servant leader and advocate for Head Start. Serving on the Florida Head Start Association Board of Directors would allow me to guide other programs throughout the state of Florida and act as an advocate. In my years as a Director, I have always helped other programs when provided the opportunity. I want to bring my diverse and robust knowledge of Head Start to the board. I have worked in Head Start for 24 years in various roles. I am well versed in the Head Start Program Performance Standards and Head Start Act. I have led projects in all areas which have helped Orange County Head Start be hugely successful. I want to share those experiences with other Directors and programs in the State of Florida. My goal is to help Head Start remain at the top and relevant in the next 50 years.
 Southeast Director, Angela M. Iudica, Ph.D.
The School Board of Broward County, Director, Head Start/Early Intervention
Why do you want to serve on the FHSA Board of Directors?
I would like to become more involved with the Florida Head Start Association. I would also like to bring the perspective of a public school Head Start program. Finally, I would like to represent the Southeast region to ensure that any issues or concerns specific to the area are addressed.
 Southern Director, Dr. Maite Riestra-QuinteroMiami-Dade Community Action and Human Services Department, Assistant Director Early Childhood Programs - Head Start and Early Head Start Division
Why do you want to serve on the FHSA Board of Directors?
I want to serve on the FHSA Board of Directors to be able to enhance and support local programs in the delivery of high-quality, comprehensive early childhood services to pregnant women, children birth to age five and their families. Furthermore, I believe in FHSA™s mission/purpose and have the desire to become involved and give back to our Head Start/Early Head Start community. As Head Start directors, we face challenges that impact our ability to address the evolving needs of the children, families, and staff in our care. Being part of the Board would provide a path to advocate for policies and solutions that would address these needs in a systematic and meaningful way across the state.
Directors-At-Large
 Mary Grace Sabella Romo, Staff
Pasco County Head Start, Health Manager
Why do you want to serve on the FHSA Board of Directors?
I have just completed my third year as a supervisor for a school board grantee of Head Start/Early Head Start programs. Coming to Head Start was like coming home. I feel like my 30+years career of working in Title, ESOL, and migrant was all along preparing to be a part of the Head Start mission and family. I would like to serve on the FHSA Board of Directors because I want to be an integral part of supporting the future growth of Head Start in Florida.
 Angel Maldonado, Parent
Lutheran Services Florida Duval County Head Start
Why do you want to serve on the FHSA Board of Directors?
I currently serve as vice-chair for the Duval county LSF Headstart in Jacksonville FL. My son goes to head start at Hyde grove, I am a Headstart baby myself and gave a speech at the St. Augustine FHSA state conference. I want to serve on the board to help my child and all our children be the best they can be.
 Cindy Kaier, FriendICF, Early Childhood Specialist, Region IV
Why do you want to serve on the FHSA Board of Directors?
I would like to be more involved in the state association and help in advancing strategic goals.
Janet Ranaldi, Friend
Teachstone, Regional Director (FL/GA)
Why do you want to serve on the FHSA Board of Directors?
Ensuring that all children in our state have access to high-quality education and supporting services is something I feel very strongly about. It probably comes as no surprise that in my role as the Teachstone Regional Director, I believe firmly that the teachers who have strong interactions with their students are some of the very best influences in early childhood. Of course, those teachers are usually part of a program that provides professional development and other supports. In my travels around the state, I'm often amazed by the incredible efforts so many Head Start and Early Head Start programs are putting forth and see the positive impact this has on children and their families. I have immense respect for all who make up the Head Start community and frequently share with friends and family all the good that I see. Knowing that there is an opportunity to be part of the FHSA Board of Directors, I hope to leverage my enthusiasm, determination and business skills that I have developed to serve our community and, hopefully, learn more along the journey that could potentially help both me and the organization I represent better understand how we can increase our knowledge and supports.
|
