PAT vision
All children will develop, learn and grow to realize their full potential.
PAT mission
Parents as Teachers promotes the optimal early development, learning and health of children by supporting and engaging their parents and caregivers.
PAT values
● Parents are their children’s first and most influential teacher
● The early years of a child's life are critical for optimal development and provide the foundation for success in school and life.
● Established and emerging research should be the foundation of parent education and family support, curricula, training, materials and services.
● All young children and their families deserve the same opportunities to succeed, regardless of any demographic, geographic or economic considerations.
Eligibility requirements for PAT, capacity, any stats or other detailed information you want to share about PAT
PAT Qualifications
● Must be a resident of Potter County or Randall County
● Have a child between prenatal and five years of age.
● No income restrictions
PAT
Highland Park Parents as Teachers (PAT) is a Free evidence-based home visiting program. We provide the following services:
● Personal in-home visits
● Child screenings
● Group connections
● Resource connections
Valerie Gutierrez, Parents as Teachers Coordinator
My name is Valerie Gutierrez and I hold a bachelor’s degree in social work and I have spent nearly a decade supporting families in their child development journey. I spent six years as a service coordinator with Early Childhood Intervention (ECI), where I provided comprehensive case management. Currently, I serve as the Parents as Teachers Coordinator, focusing on enhancing parent education and support from prenatal stages through early childhood. I am passionate about empowering families and ensuring they have access to the resources and support they need during these crucial early years.
Laurel “Nikki” Southern, Parents as Teacher Educator
My name is Laurel "Nikki" Southern and I hold an associates degree in biology and have gained valuable experience in both education and healthcare. Over the course of two years, I have worked in early childhood education, helping to foster young minds and contribute to their foundational growth. Additionally, I have spent two years working in nutritional healthcare, where I applied my knowledge to promote health and well-being. This diverse background has equipped me with a unique skill set that bridges education, science and health, making me a well-rounded professional in these fields passionate about the overall well-being of children of all ages.
Christina Garza, Parents as Teachers Educator
My name is Christina Garza and I live in Amarillo, TX. with my Husband Luis. In my spare time I enjoy hanging out with our adult babies and spoiling our Grandkids is what I do best. With a Child Development Associate credential, I have dedicated over 30 years to early childhood education, primarily at Region 16, Early Head Start/Head Start for 12 years and Highland Park for the past 18 years. My passion lies in fostering the growth and development of children aged 0-5, which I have pursued as a Home Educator for Parents as Teachers at Highland Park for the past 13 years. Working closely with parents, I empower families to be their children's first teachers, creating supportive environments that nurture learning and development. My commitment to early childhood education reflects my belief in the transformative power of supportive and enriching early experiences.
