A Beautiful Connection Between Teacher Tobi and Former Head Start Student

Long-time Teacher Tobi Garelick has taught at Izzi Early Education (formerly IHSD) for over 25 years. In that time, she’s continued to stay connected with former Serramonte Head Start student Lindsey Lintner from her first year teaching.

Teacher Tobi: What do you remember about preschool?

Lindsey: I remember nap time and not wanting to sleep. I played with play dough and talked a lot with my friends.

Teacher Tobi: What was your favorite memory?

Lindsey: Teacher Tobi!

Teacher Tobi: Who were your preschool friends?

Lindsey: I had one friend named Demetra, and our moms stayed in touch for a few years..

Teacher Tobi: Why do you think it was important for you to go to preschool?

Lindsey: Preschool had a great impact on me as a child. I built my social skills, made friends, dealt with conflicts and gained independence, but the biggest impact from preschool would have to be my overall wellbeing and academic success.

Teacher Tobi: What was the biggest lesson you took away from going to preschool?

Lindsey: My mother was struggling with substance abuse issues, and preschool provided a safe haven for me to learn. I believe that learning to trust other adults besides your parents or caregivers has helped with attachment, security, and the ability to form healthy relationships. Teacher Tobi showed me that it was a safe place where I could be a kid and explore life on my own terms. I developed a bond with her that is unbreakable, and I wouldn't trade it for the world. Tobi treated me as an individual and showed me that I can achieve anything in life as long as you apply yourself.

Teacher Tobi: What did you do after preschool?

Lindsey: I went to Los Cerritos Grammar School in South San Francisco (SSF), and then my mother moved us to Grants Pass, Oregon when I was in the 2nd grade. I went to junior college and graduated with my AA degree when I was pregnant with my first daughter. Last year, I realized a dream of mine and opened a plant store. I love plants and meeting all the people who come into my store!

*Teacher Tobi’s note: I remember making a report to CPS, and Lindsey was put into foster care. The CPS worker came to the site and took her the day I made the report. Her mother Leslie kept in touch with me and would call the Serramonte site every time some life event would happen to her. When Lindsey was in foster care for the 2nd time in high school, I sent her care packages and checked in with her. Her mother called when she went into treatment for substance abuse and when she got custody back of Lindsey. Over the years, Leslie kept calling me and telling me what was going on in her life and Lindsey's too. I went to her high school graduation and have seen her many times over the years.

Lindsey now has 2 daughters. She opened her plant store Urban Plant House in Grants Pass, Oregon in 2023. Her mom Leslie has been sober for 12 years and is helping others stay clean. She helps them secure housing and get the services they need to live a healthy life.

Thank you Teacher Tobi and Lindsey for sharing your beautiful connection over the years!