Jalexa Molina - May 2024 Shero

Congratulations Jalexa Molina, Worcester, MA

My name is Jalexa Molina, I was born in Puerto Rico, and my story is that of a brave and determined mother, a story of struggle, sacrifice, and, above all, of overcoming. The devastating Hurricane Maria had hit our home, and with three young children in my care, I decided to embark on a journey into the unknown in search of a more prosperous and secure life. In November 2017, I decided to take a bold step towards a better future for my family and me upon arriving in the United States.

I traveled alone with my three little ones, with a suitcase full of hope and determination, leaving behind my husband, who stayed in Puerto Rico working hard to keep us afloat. My children were then 1, 2 and 7 years old, and my heart beat with the hope of a brighter future.

I found part-time work while my children began attending a family child care center, and I took advantage of every opportunity to improve my English proficiency and job skills. However, she faced constant challenges due to the responsibility of being a single mother. In 2019, I was on the verge of losing my job due to numerous absences caused by my children's illnesses and unforeseen weather. However, it was amid that adversity that a new opportunity arose. My children's school bus driver Edwin spoke to me about the possibility of starting my own family child care program, and along with his wife Sofi, they provided me with the support and guidance necessary to take the leap. In July 2019, I received my child care license, an accomplishment I never would have imagined at the beginning of my journey.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges, and in 2020 I decided to temporarily close my program while my children took virtual classes. However, in October 2021, I decided to resume my business with renewed determination and in January 2022, I reopened the doors of my child care program.

With the support of the Shared Services of Massachusetts, I managed to get a better management of my documents and financial planning. I obtained my bilingual CDA and began taking college classes to obtain my associate in early education. I also participated in a mentoring course to help other entrepreneurs in this field. In 2024, we launched our virtual academy, Deep Sea Online Academy, offering online preschool education with a bilingual curriculum and math and reading tutoring services for children ages 4 to 9.

I am proud of every step I have taken on this journey, from where I started with no experience to where I am today, offering services that positively impact more families. My life purpose has found its home in the field of early education, and each day fills me with joy and gratitude, knowing that I'm contributing to the development and success of the children who pass through our doors.

My business, Deep Sea Child Care & Online Academy, is more than a name, it is a reflection of my determination, my dreams come true, and my desire to be a light of hope for those seeking a better future. I invite you to join us on this exciting journey and discover the transformative power of quality early care and education.