General Info

Executive Director:​ Andrea Pesina

Programs: Early Headstart – Headstart

Quick Info

Registration and Enrollment

At Isleta Headstart and Childcare Center, our registration and enrollment process is designed to be straightforward and welcoming. We understand that entrusting your child to our care is a significant decision, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Our team is readily available to assist with paperwork, answer questions, and ensure that the process is as smooth as possible for your family. We look forward to welcoming your child into our nurturing and educational environment, where they can thrive and grow.

Parent Resources

We believe that informed and empowered parents are key partners in a child’s educational journey. At Isleta Head start and Childcare Center, we offer a wealth of parent resources to support you in nurturing your child’s growth and development. Our resources include informative workshops, access to educational materials, and opportunities for active involvement in your child’s learning experience as well as forms you may need to submit information or requests from our staff on behalf of your student. We encourage open communication and collaboration, and our goal is to provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to be your child’s first and best teacher. Together, we can create a strong foundation for your child’s lifelong success.

Release of Information – BLANK
Health Program Calendar 2025-2026
HS Oral Health Form – Pregnant Women and Pregnant People
HS Oral Health Form – Children
EHSandHS Physical Exam Forms
periodicity_schedule
POIHS Health Policies 2022-2023

News & Events

Stay connected with the latest updates, news, and exciting events happening at Isleta Headstart and Childcare Center. Our dynamic calendar features a range of enriching activities, family engagement opportunities, and educational highlights. Whether it’s a special themed event, an educational workshop, or a milestone celebration, you’ll find all the details right here. We believe in keeping our community informed and engaged, and we look forward to sharing these memorable moments with you and your child.

Programs & Facilities

Early Head Start – Prenatal to 3 years

(3 options to choose from)

  1. Home Based for Pregnant Mothers: Home visits from a Home Visitor who brings information and materials about pregnancy & child development.
  2. Home Based for Parent & Child Birth to 3 years: Weekly 90-minute home visits from a Home Visitor who provides information and materials about parenting and child development. Bi-weekly Socialization activities in a group setting (i.e. fun walks, field trips, child development, & more).
  3. Classrooms ages 3 months to 3 years:  A 6-hour, 5 day-a-week program. Classrooms are equipped with hands on, age appropriate materials and qualified teachers. There are no transportation services available for this option.

Head Start 3-5 year olds

​A 6-hour, 5 day-a-week program. Classrooms are equipped with hands-on, age appropriate materials and qualified teachers. Transportation services are available for those who live at least a ¾ mile from the Head Start & Child Care building and within the Isleta Reservation boundaries, with the exception of those who reside East of NM 314.
Transportation Handbook

The Isleta Head Start & Child Care Program is a family centered learning environment that respects and values children, families and the community. The safety of our children at Isleta Head Start & Child Care is of utmost importance to us. The transportation policies and procedures have been developed to better serve our families while meeting Federal, State and Tribal Transportation Regulations, as applicable, as well as Head Start Performance Standards.

Click to Download
2015_16_transportation_hand_book_final

Policies, Procedures, & Reporting

To ensure that the program has an effective ERSEA Committee that will enhance the program’s ability to effectively meet the requirements of CFR 1305 and all other regulations and procedures in this critical management system.

This policy relates to Head Start Performance Standards 45 CFR 1305

Click here to Download
ersa-pp2015updatefinal

Career Opportunities

Are you passionate about early childhood education and looking for a rewarding career? Join our dedicated team at Isleta Headstart and Childcare Center. We offer exciting career opportunities for individuals who share our commitment to nurturing young minds and creating a positive impact on children’s lives. As part of our team, you’ll have the chance to make a difference, grow professionally, and contribute to our mission of providing high-quality care and education. Explore our current job openings and embark on a fulfilling journey with us. Your passion for early childhood education is welcomed here.

Staff Directory

Our dedicated and experienced team at Isleta Headstart and Childcare Center is here to support your child’s growth and learning journey. To connect with any member of our staff, please refer to our staff directory below:

Andrea Pesina, Executive Director  andrea.pesina@isletapueblo.com

Sabrina Castillo, Facilities/Transportation Coordinator  sabrina.castillo@isletapueblo.com

Jeffrey Jojola, Business Manager jeffrey.jojola@isletapueblo.com

Victoria Kaye, Disabilities Coordinator victoria.kaye@isletapueblo.com

Amberrose Papuyo, Child Care Coordinator amberrose.papuyo@isletapueblo.com

Jerri Peace, Nutrition Coordinator jerri.peace@isletapueblo.com

Joanne Sanchez, Head Start Support Assistant joanne.sanchez@isletapueblo.com

Michelle Santillanes, Education Coordinator michelle.santillanes@isletapueblo.com

Melanie Valdez, Family Services Coordinator melanie.valdez@isletapueblo.com

Autumn Abeita, Child Care Provider

Johanna Abeita, Special Education Teacher

Trishelle Anchondo-Lujan, Staff Assistant

Annadine Anzara, Home Visitor I

Summer Benavidez, Teacher

Sasha Brown, Teacher

Dianna Burbank, Teacher

Alexandria Cambridge, Teacher

Loriann Chavez, Child Care Provider

Geneva Ciccarello, Teacher

Danielle Dale, Teacher

Laura Edaakie, Mentor Teacher

Loisa Fischer, Teacher

Yolanda Garley, Teacher Floater

Rebecca Gonzales, Staff Assistant

Lucinda Jaramillo, Cook

Rhiannon Jojola, Teacher

Collin Keeton, Facilities Worker

Jesus Lara, Teacher Assistant

Ashley Lucero, Home Visitor II

Pearl Lujan, Teacher Assistant

Marisa Montoya, Child Care Provider

Nizhoni Phillips, Family Services Worker

Victoria Pino, Teacher

Ciara Piro, Teacher

Patricia Piro, Teacher

Meredith Platero, Child Care Provider

Heidy Ramirez, Teacher

Kasandra Rodriguea, Facilities Worker

Yvonne Valdez, Cook

Leslie Velardez, Cook

Deidra Zuni, Teacher

For additional contact information or to reach a specific staff member, please feel free to contact our main office. We are here to assist you and ensure a nurturing and enriching experience for your child.

Get In Touch

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Please let us know what's on your mind. Have a question for us? Ask away.

Parent Committee!

Every First Thursday of Each month!

Family Nights

Every 2nd Wednesday of Each Month

Male Involvement/Fatherhood

Every 3rd Tuesday of Each Month!

About Us

Our childcare program is dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for children. We offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each child, from infants to preschoolers. Our experienced educators are committed to fostering early childhood development through play-based learning, social interaction, and hands-on experiences.

Class Schedule | Curricular Activities

Our highly trained and caring staff are committed to nurturing infants and toddlers in a safe and loving environment. We recognize that each child is unique, and we tailor our program to meet their individual needs and milestones. Through interactive play, exploration, and meaningful relationships, we support early language development, social skills, and cognitive growth.

Class Schedule | Curricular Activities

 

Our head start program is dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education and comprehensive services to children ages three to five. We believe that every child deserves a strong start in life, and our program is designed to prepare them for success in school and beyond through play-based activities, hands-on experiences, and a culturally enriched curriculum, we lay the foundation for lifelong achievement.

Class Schedule | Curricular Activities

 

Our teaching team at Isleta Headstart and Childcare Center is a group of highly trained professionals dedicated to early childhood education. They create a nurturing environment that fosters curiosity and a love for learning. Each teacher tailors their approach to meet the unique needs and strengths of every child. They provide warmth, care, and strong bonds, ensuring each child feels valued. Our teachers are mentors and champions of each child’s potential, shaping a brighter future for all.

Class Schedule | Curricular Activities

 

Parents play a vital role in our mission to provide the best care for children at Isleta Headstart and Childcare Center. Their involvement, insights, and partnership are invaluable. By working together, we create a holistic support system that ensures each child’s needs are met, their unique qualities celebrated, and their growth nurtured. Parents’ active participation and open communication contribute significantly to our ability to tailor our care and educational approach to suit each child’s individuality. With parents as our allies, we can provide a safe, enriching, and loving environment where every child can thrive.

Class Schedule | Curricular Activities

 

Our Mission & Vision

Vision

To develop school readiness, social emotional skills, and respect while nurturing the traditional and cultural values of our children, families and community.

Mission

We value the growth and development of the children by encompassing fun-loving, culturally enriched and high-quality educational experiences and connections.

Location

2 Sagebrush Street
Isleta, NM 87022

School Hours

Early Head Start
8:00 am to 3:00 pm

Head Start
8:15 am to 2:45 pm

AM Child Care
7:30 am to 8:00 am/8:15 am (depending on program)

Child Care Full Day
8:00 am to 3:00 pm

PM Child Care
2:45 pm/3:00 pm to 5:00 pm (depending on program)

Phone & Email

505-869-9796
info@isletaheadstartandchildcare.com

Our Director

“Thank you for entrusting us with your children at Isleta Headstart and Childcare Center. Your partnership is vital as we provide the best care and education. Together, we can nurture their growth, celebrate achievements, and create a loving environment. Here’s to a year of learning and shared milestones”

Andrea Pesina

Executive Director

Calendar

November

No Events

Contact

2 Sagebrush Street
Isleta, NM 87022
Call: 505-869-9796
Fax: 505-869-7578
Mailing Address:
PO Box 579
Isleta, NM 87022

Hours

AM Child Care
7:30 am to 8:00 am/8:15 am

Child Care Full Day
8:00 am to 3:00 pm
PM Child Care
2:45 pm/3:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Early Head Start & Head Start
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.