Director-at-large Candidate, Alisa Thornton

The Agricultural and Labor Program, Inc. Head Start/Early Head Start, Senior Manager

Why do you want to serve on the FHSA Board of Directors?

With over 25 years of continuous involvement in Head Start and currently serving as a Head Start Senior Manager, I am deeply invested in the success of Florida's children and families. My journey through the Head Start program, spanning frontline work, leadership roles, and community partnerships, has shaped not only my career but also my unwavering belief in the power of early childhood education to transform lives. That is why I am seeking the opportunity to serve on the FHSA Board of Directors.

My commitment to the Florida Head Start Association extends well beyond professional alignment. I view this as a personal mission.

I wholeheartedly support FHSA's vision of building a future where all Head Start families thrive, and am driven by the organization's core mission: to empower members to lead, advocate, and enhance the quality of education, health, and social services we provide. I believe my lived experience, leadership capacity, and collaborative mindset can support that mission at the board level. In my role as Senior Manager, I work directly with diverse teams and families, navigating complex challenges and leading with integrity, creativity, and accountability. I understand the importance of listening to varied perspectives and working across differences to find solutions that center the needs of children and families. These are the same principles I would bring to board service, rooted in inclusion, transparency, and a shared vision for equitable access to opportunity. 

My professional background includes strategic planning, program development, staff mentorship, and policy implementation. I have also had the privilege of supporting and mentoring new leaders entering the Head Start world. This experience aligns with the FHSA's purpose of delivering high-quality professional development to staff, parents, and community members. I am also committed to using my voice to advocate for policies that truly reflect and respond to the needs of our most vulnerable children and families. Throughout my career, I have remained actively engaged in FHSA efforts, events, and initiatives, and I am committed to contributing to its ongoing success. I understand the importance of strong, mission-focused leadership and am ready to step into a role where I can help shape strategy, build coalitions, and support Head Start professionals across Florida. Serving on the FHSA Board would allow me to apply my decades of experience, strategic insight, and passion for early childhood development in a meaningful way. I am ready to contribute, collaborate, and help ensure FHSA continues to be a strong, visionary force for children and families across our state. 

What skills and talents would you bring to the FHSA Board of Directors?

My journey with Head Start has come full circle from being a Head Start parent to serving in roles as teacher, site manager, mentor, and currently as a departmental leader. This path has given me firsthand insight into the needs of the families we serve and the importance of strong, experienced leadership.

I welcome the opportunity to bring my skills and perspective to the Florida Head Start Association (FHSA) Board of Directors to help advance its mission and support programs statewide. I hold a master's degree in teaching and Learning, specializing in Early Childhood Education and Early Literacy, along with a bachelor's degree in organizational management with a minor in Human Resources. These academic achievements have strengthened my ability to lead both instructionally and administratively, ensuring high-quality support for staff and program operations.

With over 25 years of experience in the Head Start field, I've led a range of efforts in strategic planning, professional development, and program design. In my current position, I oversee the Education and Child Development Department, where I work to maintain strong learning environments and consistent program quality. One of my most meaningful responsibilities has been mentoring emerging leaders, helping them grow in their roles and guiding them through the unique challenges of early childhood education. I am also a graduate of the UCLA Head Start Management Fellows Program, which enhanced my leadership and organizational management skills. Through that experience, I developed and implemented strategic solutions to improve performance and address operational challenges within our program. Additionally, I serve as the liaison between our program and its Board of Directors, supporting planning, event coordination, and meeting facilitation. This role has given me valuable experience in board operations and communication. I also participate in the Lincoln Park Advisory Committee, representing the interests of the local families we serve and helping to ensure that their needs are considered when services are planned and delivered. 

I believe my background, leadership skills, and commitment to the Head Start mission make me a strong candidate for the FHSA Board of Directors. I am confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to its goals and to support the continued success of Head Start programs across Florida.