Marisela Hernandez: Up Close and Personal

The challenge is some times with parents who have difficulty dealing with the fact that their child may have behavioral difficulties or a disability. I tell them ‘it’s ok.’ The child just needs early intervention so they can thrive in the long run.

What got you interested in the field of Early Education?
I’ve always enjoyed being around children … When I was about ten years old I used
to play school with the kids in the neighborhood. I would set up benches and a
chalkboard at home. I would be the teacher and give them homework -- and they
would come back with the work! I felt the rewards. In Junior High and High School I
volunteered to tutor ... It’s something that just comes naturally to me. Now I tell my
kids, ‘get a career you enjoy and the work won’t be hard.’

What are some of the challenges you face on the job?
We have children with ADHD, behavioral problems. Those are the ones I like the
best. The challenge is some times with parents who have difficulty dealing with the
fact that their child may have behavioral difficulties or a disability. I tell them ‘it’s ok.’
The child just needs early intervention so they can thrive in the long run.

How does being a union member impact your work?
I just feel I have a stronger voice. I can do a lot on my own, but with I union I can do
more … When I was denied some personal time off for a family matter, I filed a
grievance and was able to get the time I needed … It helps everyone’s morale to
know that we have support and representation when we need it.

What keeps you motivated and active as a union member?
I’ve been in the position where I was afraid to speak out, afraid of losing my job. Now,
I believe that when everyone gets together, things happen. I tell my co-workers, ‘if you
have a question, call the Union… if something doesn’t seem right, call.’ There are a
lot of things we are not aware of and we need to get informed. With a Union we can
stand up for what we believe, and good things will follow.