Meet Trisha Coolong: A Head Start Success, In Her Own Words

I was a Head Start baby. I grew up in the projects of Revere with my mom and three siblings. I was the first of my family to graduate high school. I became a devoted Head Start teacher while working toward my associate degree in Early Childhood Education, but was laid off due to cuts in federal funding. In 2014, I applied for a Lead Teacher position at LEO. I had been a Lead Teacher previously and had prior director’s experience. LEO took a chance on me. Knowing I was so close to graduating with my credentials, they offered me the Lead Teacher
position. After two years in the classroom, I was promoted to Assistant Center Manager, then to Center Manager! During this time, I earned a bachelor’s degree in Early Education, a Master’s of Science specializing in Special Education, and an Autism Spectrum Disorders certificate, thanks to LEO’s financial support. With increased education I began working as the Education and Access Manager, serving all of our children and families as they navigated their educational journeys. In 2025, I was named Assistant Program Director of Early Childhood Development, among the highest leadership positions in my organization.  My road was not always easy. I have had my share of personal obstacles along the way. However, I never gave up on my goals. I am proud to say I am a role model to my daughter and to the children and families I have the privilege to serve.