Michelle Toral

My name is Michelle Toral, and I am the Head Start Manager at Miami-Dade County’s Community Action and Human Services Department where I lead administrative and programmatic activities for Mental Health, Education, Disabilities, Quality Assurance, and Innovations for the largest Head Start/Early Head Start Program in the southeastern United States. Prior to my current role, I was a District Supervisor at Miami-Dade County Public School’s Office of Early Childhood Programs, a Curriculum Support Specialist, and Early Childhood Teacher.  I have served as the Professional Development Chair for Florida Head Start’s Association planning and creating high-quality opportunities for Early childhood professionals.

I hold a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Leadership & Professional Development from the University of Florida, and an Early Childhood Leadership Certificate from Harvard.  I have a Coaching certification with extensive experience in facilitating communities of practice.  I completed my bachelor’s degree in education with certifications in Early Childhood education and Teaching English as a Second Language.

I am passionate about supporting FLAEYC's mission as a member of the Board. I believe my unique abilities can significantly contribute to the organization's goals.   I have a vast understanding of early childhood education and a commitment to improving educational equity.

My core strength lies in knowledge and innovation. My experience working in various capacities broadened my ability to think innovatively from different perspectives. Managing such a large program allows me to identify trends. While also challenging me to think outside of the box to identify and meet the needs of a diverse group of children, families, and staff. I am confident that my experiences would allow me to provide FLAEYC with insights to inform strategic decision-making and resource development, inclusive of all early childhood educators.

I excel at collaboration and facilitating communication.  I focus on creating communities of practice that bring stakeholders together to discuss and create opportunities for dialogue that will help bring change and improvements across programs, my goal is to provide high quality services to all children.

I view myself as an ally to empower FLAEYC's leadership. By leveraging my knowledge, experience, abilities and role in Florida’s Head Start, I can contribute to FLAEYC's mission of ensuring high-quality early childhood education experiences for children in Florida.  I am enthusiastic about the prospect of working alongside the members of the Board and believe my unique skillset would be a valuable asset to the organization.