The Minnesota Head Start Association has named Amelia Castillo a 2026 Head Start Hero, recognizing her decades of service, advocacy and commitment to children and families across southern Minnesota.
The Minnesota Head Start Association’s annual Head Start Hero Award recognizes individuals whose lives reflect resilience, dedication, and a deep commitment to strengthening families and communities. This year, the Minnesota Head Start Association proudly honored Amelia — an extraordinary staff member whose lifelong journey with Head Start spans nearly five decades and three generations.
Amelia’s connection to Head Start began in the 1970s, during a childhood shaped by the realities of migrant farm work. Each year, her family traveled from Texas following crop seasons—harvesting asparagus in Minnesota, cherries in Wisconsin, and tomatoes in Ohio. Life meant long days, constant movement, and few certainties.
Everything changed when Amelia’s mother joined Tri-Valley’s Migrant and Seasonal Head Start program in Southern Minnesota. That moment not only provided stability and support for their family, but marked the beginning of a three‑generation tradition of service within Head Start—one that continues to this day.
“We are a Head Start family,” Amelia says—a statement that captures both her roots and her purpose.
Amelia’s own journey is a remarkable reflection of dedication, perseverance, and growth. She began her career as a dishwasher and soon moved into positions as a bus aide, teacher’s aide, and eventually a teacher. She earned her Child Development Accreditation through the University of Waseca, further strengthening her commitment to early childhood education. Over the years, she has served as an Infant, Toddler, and Preschool teacher, always guided by the deep connection she feels to the program that once supported her own family.
“I wanted to make a difference for the kids and families,” she shares. “I really enjoy the children—they keep you young.”
Beyond the classroom, Amelia has become a trusted advocate and community leader. For the past seven years, she has volunteered at local health fairs, helping families access critical services. Whetherinterpreting, guiding families to resources, or simply offering a welcoming presence, Amelia ensures families feel seen, supported, and valued.
“I know we are helping the families,” she says. “The children have food and are safe while parents work. The parents are so grateful and happy.”
Her advocacy extends to statewide efforts as well. Amelia has supported initiatives like Driver’s License for All, helping connect families to opportunities that strengthen independence and stability. She has also championed literacy by helping bring Spanish-language books to the Owatonna public library—ensuring children and families can see their culture and language reflected in their community.
Amelia finds her greatest joy in watching transformation happen over time. “I love watching the families grow and come out of their shell, and the kids growing,” she says.
After 40 years of service, Amelia remains a constant and inspiring presence. She is often the first to arrive and the last to leave, always ready to lend a hand. Beyond her daily work, she actively recruits families by sharing information about Head Start wherever she goes—at church, in the community, and even while running errands. She carries brochures with her, determined to connect others to a program that changed her life.
As Amelia celebrates her 80th birthday this year, her story stands as a powerful testament to dedication, advocacy, and the lasting impact of Head Start. Her journey—from migrant child to educator, advocate, and community leader—embodies the heart of this work.
We are proud to recognize Amelia Castillo as a Head Start Hero—someone whose legacy continues to uplift children, families, and communities every day.
Congratulations and thank you, Miss Amelia!