When Serafina Moreno first walked into a Head Start classroom more than two decades ago, she was not an educator – she was a young mother looking for support and opportunity.
In August, Serafina was recognized by the Stanislaus County Office of Education as a 2025 Regional Early Care and Education Employee of the Year, honored for her dedication to helping families find the same guidance she once received.
Born in Mexico and raised as the third of seven children, Moreno learned the value of family early on. When she immigrated to the United States, she faced challenges familiar to many new parents: navigating a new education system, learning English, and ensuring her children had the support they needed to thrive.
Her journey with Modesto City Schools began when she enrolled her son in Head Start at age 3. Volunteering in his classroom opened the door to a new calling.
“I found my purpose working with children,” Moreno said. “I really like when families are able to open up to what their needs are. I was there. You really have to have the heart for it.”
Encouraged by a family services specialist who recognized her potential, Moreno applied for one of ten family services specialist positions when the program first launched in 2001.
Though Moreno began her career at Pearson, she has supported families at Franklin for years. Now, in what she describes as a “full circle moment,” she divides her time between the two campuses, continuing to build relationships grounded in trust, empathy, and empowerment.
“Serafina approaches her work with warmth, empathy, and a deep respect for each family’s unique culture and story,” said Sarah Cromwell, Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment and Attendance (ERSEA) and Support Services Coordinator for Modesto City Schools. “Her compassion and intentionality make her a cornerstone of our early education programs.”
Colleagues describe Moreno as a mentor, a collaborator, and a steady source of encouragement. She goes above and beyond to meet families where they are, often through home visits and individualized support, and a genuine desire to help others thrive.
When asked what advice she would share with others entering the field, she offered a message of gratitude and growth.
“There’s always room for growth,” she said. “And always remember the people who helped you along the way.”
For Moreno, those people include mentors like Donna Bush, Sarah Cromwell, and Dina Brambila – each instrumental in shaping the compassionate advocate she is today.
Their belief in her, she said, continues to remind her why she chose this path: to help families find hope, connection, and confidence, just as others once did for her.
“The most rewarding part of my job is simple,” she said. “I’m so happy at my work that it translates into my life. I’m doing something that makes me feel like I’m making a difference. It’s rewarding.”
🎥 Watch SCOE’s video to learn more about Serafina Moreno and why she was nominated by clicking here!
Congratulations, Moreno, and thank you for inspiring our early learning community!