Over two years ago, Olga Torres found herself pregnant and very nervous about her future and the future of her unborn baby girl, Jacquline.

Her counselor at West High School suggested that she visit Florence Crittenton School and see the opportunities we offer.  Immediately she felt safe; thankful that it’s a school only for girls and for girls who can relate to her as a young mother, but it was the Early Learning Center that really made her feel comfortable.  Olga knew that Jacquline would be well cared for while she was attending classes down the hall, which has helped Olga to stay focused on her studies. 

When Jacquline started attending her own class in the Early Learning Center, Olga discovered that her daughter was receiving an education as well.  “They work with her on numbers, letters and colors - but what she likes best is cooking,” says Olga.  “She talks more and they are working on potty training.” 

Each child in the Early Learning Center is given a primary caregiver which allows for a unique opportunity for our teen families.  The children are receive the best care possible and the mothers build a relationship of trust and communication.  Having this relationship has helped Olga when she needs advice or ideas on raising Jacquline.   

Olga is also enrolled in a class called Family Albums, where through photos she is able to see what Jacquline is doing in her class to develop and grow. Olga said, “It shows you what your child is doing all day, and helps me to think of things we can do at home to continue learning and have the fun I can see she is having at school.”

Olga and Jacquline are working on their pathway to success.  Olga will graduating this May and plans to go to college and study law.  She said, “I am looking for a place like the Early Learning Center to send Jacquline – it’s difficult to find something that I know will continue to work with her on her education.  She really likes coming to school and it’s important to me that I find the right place for her.”  

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