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Featured left to right in the photo: Iveth Chacon, Sarah Paul, and Jan Paul


Please welcome two new Cafe facilitators, Iveth Chacon and Jan Paul!  They are providing family engagement opportunities in Northwest Arkansas!


Iveth Chacon

Who inspires you professionally or personally?  And why? 

I don’t have any one person in particular who inspires me, but my passion for teaching and helping others is what truly drives me. The joy I get from seeing students learn, grow, and succeed keeps me motivated. It’s the desire to make a positive impact in their lives and help them reach their potential that inspires me every day. That passion fuels my commitment to being the best teacher I can be.  

What are some of your hobbies? 

One of my favorite hobbies is crafting. I love working with my hands to create unique and personalized items, whether it's making decorations, DIY gifts, or fun classroom projects. Crafting allows me to unwind and get creative, and it also ties into my passion for teaching, as I often use my crafts to engage students and make lessons more interactive. It’s a fun and fulfilling way to express myself!  

What is your most treasured accomplishment? 

My most treasured accomplishment is getting my teaching degree after a long time. It was a journey filled with challenges, but my passion for teaching kept me going. Earning that degree was not only a dream come true but also a testament to my perseverance and dedication. It represents the fulfillment of a lifelong goal and my commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of students.  

What do you do to treat yourself? 

When I want to treat myself, I dive into crafting. Whether it's creating something new for my home, making handmade gifts, or simply experimenting with different materials, crafting allows me to relax and express my creativity. It’s my go-to way to unwind and do something that brings me joy. Plus, it gives me a sense of accomplishment when I see the finished product!  

What is one thing you cannot do without? 

One thing I cannot do without is God and my family. They are my foundation, providing strength, guidance, and unconditional support throughout my life. My faith keeps me grounded, while my family is always there to encourage me, celebrate my successes, and lift me up during challenging times. Together, they are my greatest source of comfort and motivation.  



Jan Paul


Who inspires you professionally or personally?  And why? 

I don't have one particular person who inspires me, but more like a type of person. Over the years I've been inspired both personally and professionally by people who always have a positive outlook and something nice to say. You probably know some of those people, too: never say an unkind word about anyone, never complain about a situation, always listening to others instead of talking about themselves. Their presence in my life has given me an example to strive for.I wish I could say that I've become just like them simply by being around them, but sadly I still have a LONG way to go!


What are some of your hobbies?

I enjoy sewing for a charity called Sew Powerful. I collect used American Girl dolls and restore them. I  sew doll clothes for my granddaughter and other little girls I know. When the weather is mild, I like to work in my yard. One of my lifelong passions is reading!


What is your most treasured accomplishment?

My three adult children are my most treasured accomplishment, even though they are responsible for who they turned out to be more than I am. They are all kind, caring people who love helping others and I'm really proud of them!


What do you do to treat yourself?

My favorite treat is a bar of very dark chocolate!


What is one thing you cannot do without?

Coffee in the morning. For real. Ask my husband!


If you are like me, then life is crazy busy. There is always a chore that needs to be done, people that need to be taken to appointments, or activities that need to be attended. When life gets this busy, we can sometimes forget to take care of ourselves. We may push aside or not realize we are feeling bad when we are so busy. 


What to do?

1. Schedule regular checkups with health professionals. It is important to remember that in order to take care of others well, we need to be well ourselves. 

2. Talk to a trusted individual. Choose a counselor, trusted friend, or religious leader. Being our best means managing our challenges without letting them overwhelm us. Having a social connection with others can help alleviate some of the struggle. Remember it's ok to not be ok, and we need to lean in to those around us who can support us and help us succeed. 


If you feel like you don’t need that support right now, look around. Someone you know is in need of a kind word or listening ear!





Join us as we talk with SALT Counseling about gratitude!


If you missed any of the previous Well-Being Wednesdays, you can check it out on our Facebook page or our YouTube channel.

Check it out:

Facebook link

YouTube link



If you weren't able to join in, here is the link to the OEC (Office of Early Childhood) provider call video link. We are also be sending out a summary of highlights each month because we know how busy you are! 

IMPORTANT REMINDERS!


Curricula Concepts Inc. is offering trainings in person and online via Zoom for families and educators! Go to our Training Calendar to sign up! Have questions or problems with registering for trainings? Contact Deborah at deborah@curriculaconcepts.com!

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“When we give ourselves compassion,

we are opening our hearts in a way that can transform our lives." —Kristin Neff


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