Lisette Delaney, K16 ECE Program

After 17 years away from school, Lisette made the brave decision to return to education and discovered a brand-new passion along the way. With the help of Amador College Connect, she was able to provide for her family with her newfound career path. “I first heard about Amador College Connect in a Facebook post during the summer of 2024,” she said. “My youngest child was starting school, and I wanted to find something to occupy my time.” “It was very intimidating at first,” she admitted. “Not because the program was hard, but because I hadn’t been in school for so long!” Lisette said despite her concerns, she pushed through the program with ease and found herself wanting to achieve more. “Everything about the ECE Program is built around our success,” Lisette shared. “Everyone was great about answering my many, many questions.” After completing the K16 Program and earning her Assistant Teaching Permit, she decided to continue her education through Columbia College to earn the next ECE permit. Lisette works at an Early Head Start site with ATCAA. “The people I work with are so encouraging and supportive. The families we serve are wonderful and it fills my heart to work with their littles,” Lisette said. “Every day is a wonderful little adventure.” “Do it! Find something you love and go for it. Even if you’re scared, especially if you’re scared. Sometimes being scared just means you care enough not to mess it up,” she said. “And while you’re at it. Enjoy the journey.” “Joining the ECE Program was the beginning of a beautiful journey. I did it on a whim and it changed my life. A huge shoutout to Mia. She was the first person to greet me when I went to enroll, and she made me feel less intimidated and more confident. I am looking forward to what the future holds.”