Balancing school, work and the responsibility of being a parent is not always easy, but it is a fulfilling challenge.

For many student parents at Palo Alto College, it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to become successful, because parents are having to balance their child’s life with their own.

Jessica Santos, a Business Management Major, said, “At times, being a student parent is difficult: being a mother, working full- time, and attending all my daughter’s activities. But overall, the outcome of striving to receive my degree will benefit both my daughter and me in the future.”

As a parent, your child means the world to you and you want the best for them. However, a child requires a lot of love, time and responsibility. Finding time to read to your child, helping them with their homework and enjoying life takes a lot of out of a parent. Besides worrying about themselves, student parents must also worry about their child’s safety, health and overall well-being.

Sylvia Salazar, a Palo Alto graduate who majored in Nursing, said, “I worked full-time, went to school full-time in the evening and made sure I provided dinner for my children. I always did my homework during my lunch break, and I still want to continue my education to receive my bachelor’s degree, despite all the difficult situations.”

Although at times it’s hard to stay focused and complete certain tasks or homework because of all the interruptions, distractions and the attention a child requires, certain mind-setting ideas and memories can help relieve stress. Thinking about your child’s birthday, looking into their loving eyes and hearing your child say “I love you” can help you overcome each obstacle you might endure.

Al Reynosa, a sophomore Psychology major, said, “I am extremely grateful to colleges like those in the ACC that have opened many venues, which allow students, especially those who work and maintain families, to earn college credit. Because of this, I am able to take more hours and my goal of finishing school is in sight.”

A lack of time is another factor that student parents encounter, and using time wisely can make a difference in school performance.
Yolanda Perez, an Administrative Computer Technology (A.C.T) major, said, “I attend workshops on how to manage time, because I believe it’s important to use your time wisely and especially because as a parent it is hard to get through school by yourself.”

Taking things one step at a time can also make a difference in coping with financial situations, tuition expenses and finding the most accommodating childcare center.

Abigay Aceves, a Social Work major, said she is hoping to create a better life for her child. “I turn to my mother for support of watching my child while I concentrate on my studies,” she said.
One of the main reasons many students turn to family members for help in watching their children is because of the negative reputation of some daycare centers.

Frank Guevara, Program Coordinator for Palo Alto’s Ray Ellison Family Center, said, “We are fortunate to have the support of the college to offer a much higher level of quality early care and education. I feel strongly that the experience children have at our center should be one that celebrates and honors childhood.”

The on-campus center is licensed for 66 children. There are two toddler classes and two preschool classes. The staff is highly qualified with associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and many years of experience. The center’s day program hours are 6:50 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The rates are as follows: Monday through Friday, $98.00 per week; Monday, Wednesday and Fridays, $58.80; per week and Tuesday and Thursday, $39.20 per week. There is also a $25 non-refundable registration fee for each semester. The Ray Ellison Family Center is planning to offer evening childcare beginning in Fall 2007. The evening program will run Monday through Thursday between 5 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. for toddlers and preschool-age children. The evening care will cost $40 a week, according to Guevara.

Rebecca Lara, Business Management major, said, “I feel very assured of my child’s safety at the center, which allows me to continue my education and work without any worries.”

For more information on the Ray Ellison Family Center, contact Frank Guevara or Patricia Montoya at (210) 921-5490, or you may also visit the center during business hours, Monday through Friday until 5:30 p.m. Enrollment for summer and fall classes is on-going, but space is limited.