REAL MOMS OF THE METRO
More than 50 metro moms were nominated for our annual Awesome Moms contest, and we are inspired by the stories of each and every one. Thanks to everyone who submitted nominations this year! Celebrate the stories of all our nominees by visiting metrofamilymagazine.com/2023-awesome-moms. Thank you to our Awesome Moms prize sponsors: Wyndham Hotel, 10 North Spa, Redrock Canyon Grill, Hefner Grill, Mama Roja’s, Upper Crust and Eminence Organics. Congratulations to the 2023 Awesome Moms winner and finalists! Awesome Moms BY ERIN PAGE . PHOTOS PROVIDED.
DENISE AND HER TWO KIDS
WINNER Denise Serrato
“Denise came to this country not knowing the English language. She fought and persevered and she now works for the Oklahoma [City] Public School System helping kids who were in her exact situation while setting a great example for her own two kids.” Mario, nominator “Being a parent is the one thing I love most about myself,” said Denise. “It’s super challenging and stressful and wonderful all at once. My kids teach me so much about myself. I am loving the ride.” Denise has been so inspired by her students over the past five years — as well as her own two children — that she is now pursuing her teaching degree through OKCPS’ Bilingual Pipeline Program, attending classes at night while working during the day. “My priority is being the best mother I can be, but when you are a teacher, you become a second parent to these kids,” said Denise. While juggling her responsibilities and being a single parent can sometimes be challenging, Denise’s palpable joy and gratitude in being mother to her daughter and son is the motivation for everything she does. Denise remembers what it felt like to be a new fourth grade student in America, knowing no English and being thrown into a brand new culture. Now as a bilingual specialist for OKCPS, she relates deeply to her students in similar situations. “I know what the kids are going through — I see how much they struggle and how scary it can be,” said Denise. “It’s important to remember that it’s as much about getting comfortable in the new environment as it is about learning. Every accomplishment is a huge celebration.”
DENISE IS A MOM OF TWO, BILINGUAL SPECIALIST FOR OKCPS AND STUDENT EARNING HER TEACHING DEGREE.
12 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAY-JUNE 2023
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