Building Foundations:

Midway’s Head Start Program

The Midway Children Center (MCC) is a Head Start Early Childhood Education Program, which is a full-day initiative that supports children aged 2 to 5 years. It focuses on teaching hands-on activities, social skills development, learning through language, motor activities and more, through fun and engaging ways. The program provides a nurturing environment where children can thrive and build a strong foundation for future learning.

“I love growing as a parent
and learning all the things
the teachers know.”

Angelica Gamino, parent

Jacqueline Mosley has been a teacher at MCC for the past fourteen years and goes by Ms. Jackie. Growing up with many siblings, she realized at a young age she wanted to become a teacher. “Someone has to be there for the babies, and one of those people is me, until I retire!” she laughs. “Once I’m in the classroom I’m in a whole different world, it’s my world.”

Angelica Gamino met Ms. Jackie when she enrolled her two sons, Ethan and Aiden, into the program. When Ethan first started, he was very shy and would bite his fingers around other children. Angelica recalls when she noticed Ethan had stopped the behavior, saying, “That’s when I knew they were in good hands. They really were cared for. They trusted the teachers, and they were happy with the kids.”

As Ethan continued in the program, his vocabulary expanded, and he became more outgoing, socializing and playing with other children. His older brother, Aiden, also thrived at MCC, and by the time he transitioned into kindergarten, he was reading to other students. Angelica attributes their success to the program’s focus on socializing, sharing, and early learning.


“I think the Head Start program is essential for kids. It helps them, even if the parents aren’t ready. I tell everyone when I see them with their babies, take them to a Head Start Program. If they need any services, they will help them.”

Angelica Gamino, parent