Early Childhood Fellowship Spotlight: Monica Gaulden

Meet Monica Gaulden, a longtime early childhood champion whose commitment to families shines through her work every day. As a Recruitment, Retention, and Training Supervisor with Family Connections’ SPARK program, Monica supports parent partners and helps equip more than 600 families with the tools they need to prepare their young children for kindergarten. Her passion for advocacy, lived experience, and belief in the power of nurturing relationships guide her leadership in the Early Childhood Leadership Fellowship.

Q. Tell us about yourself and your current professional role. What kind of work do you do, and who do you serve?

A. My name is Monica Gaulden. I have three daughters and have been married for more than 20 years. I currently serve as one of the Recruitment Retention and Training Supervisor for Family Connections SPARK (Supporting Partnerships to Assure Ready Kids) program. SPARK is a free kindergarten readiness home visiting program in Cuyahoga County that partners with families of 3- and 4-year-olds that are not yet in kindergarten. We presently serve over 600 families with the goal of equipping parents and caregivers to successfully transition their child into kindergarten. In my role, I provide oversight, training and ongoing support to a team of five parent partners ensuring they have the tools and strategies to effectively coach families and promote school readiness.

Q. What made you want to apply for the Early Childhood Leadership Fellowship?

A. I had the pleasure of attending the Groundwork Advocacy Day. Being in a room with more than 400 fellow advocates who support children, and families was truly illuminating. Listening to heartfelt testimonies was both inspiring and motivating. I left the event with a renewed fire for advocacy and a deeper awareness of how policies and state legislation impact constituents. I have a new understanding of Ohioans and their needs.

Q. What are you most excited to learn, gain, or take away from the Fellowship experience?

A. Everyone I have spoken with from the previous Fellowship cohort indicated that it was one of the best things they had ever done. They indicated that the level of comradery and networking opportunities was beneficial. I am looking forward to learning more creative ways to advocate and support the families we serve. Having the opportunity to engage with policy makers and legislators will give me a better understanding of how to make an impact.

Q. How did you first hear about or get involved with Groundwork Ohio?

A. I have been familiar with Groundwork Ohio through the promotion of early childhood advocacy with Starting Point. They promoted the involvement and understanding of Groundwork Ohio.

Q. What's one issue or challenge in the early childhood system that you're passionate about addressing?

A. Some of the biggest challenges are the cost of high-quality child care. Families' affordability should not determine a family's ability to receive quality child care. Another issue is the pay scale for child care professionals. The average hourly wage for a child care professional is $16.33 per hour. Another issue is the mental health of those who care for young children. Whether it's bereavement or sickness, wellness and mental health should all be considered and supported by those who work with young children. Lastly, prenatal and maternal health of women who are unable to or lack the understanding of quality health care during their pregnancy. I hope to develop a better understanding of each one of these topics.

Q. How does your lived experience shape the way you lead or advocate for young children and families?

A. As a young child, I always wanted to work with children and families. As I studied and grew more in my career, I developed a greater understanding of the importance of high-quality child care and developmentally appropriate practices. Imagine how different life would be if everyone entered this world loved, cared for, and nurtured in such a way our lives would be enriched and empowered. There possibly would be no war or hurt and pain if everyone understood the principles of love and understanding. Therefore, from what I have learned, high quality child care is the foundation that can positively impact children and families.

Q. What do you think is important to help make Ohio the best place to be a young child?

A. A combination of high-quality child care, affordable health care, and early intervention for mental health support are all resources that will support the early foundation of parents and their children. Lastly, employment with wages that allow individuals to financially support their family.

Q. How do you hope to use your voice as a leader in this space-now and in the future?

A. I hope to develop more efficient and effective ways to use my voice to impact legislation and policy makers. I need to listen more effectively and become a more impactful advocate.