Angela Pegelow, Chariton County
Angela Pegelow has been in the field of early education for the past 25 years, owning her licensed family child care business since 2009. She joined the MO-SECA project because the topics intrigued her. The free clock hours, paid incentives, and the opportunity for adult interaction after a week of talking with young children motivated her to register.
Participating in MO-SECA helped her reframe her thoughts regarding how she viewed expenses. Before participating in MO-SECA, if she needed something for the child care, she would purchase it. After participating in MO-SECA, she is more mindful of her expenses. For example, every winter she knows she needs snow melt to keep her home safe for families as they arrive and pick up. This year, she will buy the snow melt at the end of the season at a discounted rate and store it for next year. Angela also uses the grocery store ads to create her weekly menus based on what is on sale. She will also be adding deductions to her taxes this year. Previously, Angela had not used her lawn care, snow removal, and winter care as tax write-offs for conducting business. These are things she had not thought of before completing the MO-SECA project.
She continues to incorporate new habits to help her be more organized. Angela has created a file folder system and works to do her filing at least once a month. Managing the paperwork can be challenging after engaging with the children for 12 hours while also tending to family responsibilities and just enjoying her family. The updated filing system helps control the stacks of paper and supports her in staying organized.
Angela appreciated the technical support she received from her MO-SECA coach, Cheryl, and her Trainer/Technical Assistance Specialist, Sue Kuda. Both ladies made themselves accessible to answer questions, provide resources, and support her in making the changes specifically tailored to her program.
Angela would recommend participating in MO-SECA. Time was a challenge between operating the child care and her family, but what she learned through the project has strengthened her business for the future.
The 2024 MO-SECA schedule will be available soon.
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