LSF Head Start Staff Spotlights Fall 2026
Pinellas – Giselmarie Rodriguez, FACE Advocate
It is truly my pleasure to recognize Giselmarie Rodriguez, FACE Advocate, for the incredible work she continues to do for our children and families.
Giselmarie is one of those individuals who truly understand that Family Services is more than a job—it is about people, relationships, compassion, and making a difference when families need us the most.
Despite enrollment challenges and working with families who have experienced homelessness, transportation barriers, housing instability, and other difficult circumstances, Giselmarie continues to rise to the occasion. She does not simply identify a barrier—she works tirelessly to help families find a solution.
Whether she is helping a family secure housing, connecting them with much-needed resources, supporting them in accomplishing their family goals, or helping a family transfer to a Head Start site closer to their new home, Giselmarie makes sure our families know that they are not alone and that someone is genuinely invested in their success.
At the same time, she has remained committed to maintaining funded enrollment at her assigned site. She understands that behind every enrollment number is a child who deserves an opportunity and a family who deserves support.
What I appreciate most about Giselmarie is her willingness to step up, work through challenges, and continue showing up for our families. Her compassion, dedication, and commitment are evident in the work she does each day.
Palm Beach – Mrs Lethera Millner
This month, we are honored to recognize Lethera Miller as she begins a well-deserved retirement after an extraordinary 30 years of dedicated service as the Head Start Director at the YWCA.
For three decades, Lethera devoted her career to the mission of Head Start and to improving the lives of children and families in our community. Her leadership, commitment, and passion have helped create opportunities for countless children to learn, grow, and thrive while ensuring families received the support and resources they needed to succeed.
Thirty years of service represents more than a career—it represents generations of children and families whose lives have been touched by her dedication. Lethera’s contributions have also influenced the staff and colleagues who had the opportunity to work alongside her and learn from her leadership.
As Lethera closes this remarkable chapter, we celebrate not only her retirement but also the legacy she leaves behind in Palm Beach County’s Head Start community.
Congratulations, Lethera, on 30 incredible years of service! Thank you for your leadership, your commitment to Head Start, and most importantly, your unwavering dedication to children and families.
We wish you happiness, relaxation, and many wonderful adventures in this next chapter. Your impact will continue to be felt for years to come.
Okaloosa – Shelly Barton: A Full Circle Journey
Lutheran Services has been a meaningful part of my life for many years. As a child, I attended Head Start, where I had a safe and nurturing environment to learn, grow, and prepare for school while my mother worked to provide for our family.
As a teenager, I went through some difficult challenges at home and found support at Lutheran Services Hope House. During a time when I needed guidance and stability the most, Hope House provided a safe place and helped me build a brighter future. It truly made a lasting impact on my life.
Today, I am proud to be an Assistant Teacher with Lutheran Services Head Start, giving back to the organization that has given so much to me. I am currently pursuing my Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and hope to earn my Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education in the future. Being able to support and encourage children in the same way I was supported is incredibly rewarding.
My journey is a reminder of how lasting the impact of Lutheran Services can be. From Head Start student, to Hope House resident, to Head Start teacher, I am grateful to be living proof of the difference these programs make in the lives of children and families.
Hillsborough – Silvia
We would like to recognize Silvia for her outstanding and unwavering dedication and commitment throughout the years.
She has consistently demonstrated excellence in providing high-quality care and services to the children and families we serve.
She has always maintained her site with the highest standards of quality, safety, and professionalism. Beyond her own accomplishments, she has served as a mentor to her second teacher, providing guidance, encouragement, and support to help her grow and succeed in the field.
Her leadership, dedication, and positive influence have made a lasting impact not only on the program, but also on the families and community she serves. We are grateful for her service and the difference she continues to make each day.
We would like to take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate the growth and accomplishments of a child who was part of our EHS Hillsborough Program. According to his provider, when Jamir S. first joined the program, he needed additional support in the areas of speech and cognitive development. There were several skills he was continuing to work on, but with patience and consistent support, he continued making progress toward his developmental goals.
Throughout his time in the program, his family and provider worked together to provide guidance and opportunities for learning and development. This strong partnership played an important role in supporting his growth and helping him build confidence and independence.
We are especially proud to share that when Jamir transitioned out of the program, he was talking and communicating more effectively and had become fully potty trained. These accomplishments represent significant milestones in his development and demonstrate the progress he made during his time in the program.
We would like to recognize and thank his family and provider for their dedication, support, and partnership. Their commitment helped create an environment where Jamir S. could learn, grow, and thrive.
