I am Antoinette Taft, and I have worked with and on behalf of children for over 30 years. In the capacity of
Parenting: I am the mother of 5 amazing, neurotypical, and neurodivergent children, biological and adopted. My five wonderful children are of various Black, White, and Multi-Cultural backgrounds.
Advocacy: Board Member of Advocacy Inc. (Current), Paralegal Associates Degree (NPC, 2022), Masters of Science (Legal Studies, current), Speaker at the Round House (2019), House of Representatives District 16 Candidate (2020),
Teaching: Bachelors of Science Business Management (WGU, 2011), Special Education Teacher, Middle School Math (2012-2014), Special Education Teacher, Elementary School- All Subjects (2014-2016), General Education Teacher, K-12 (Private and Charter 2016-2018)
Fostering: 2017-Current Licensed- I have cared for approximately 40 children in my home and have assisted with helping families reunite, children placed in a higher level of care, and assisted with children being adopted. I am a resource for the Agency, Foster Families, Biological Families, and the Community in foster care.
Volunteering: (1987-Current) Summer Camp Counselor, Summer Camp Director, Pool Monitor, Little League- Coach, Manager, Board Member, Player Agent, and Vice President.
Adoption: Parent, Counselor, and Community Resource.
As a foster parent, I have firsthand knowledge of the foster care system and the needs of foster children. I have cared for almost 40 children in my home. I strongly advocate for foster children and work to ensure they have the love and support they need to thrive.
Starting in high school with being a camp counselor, vice president of my Little League, licensed foster parent, and Board Member of the Advocacy Group.
As a foster parent, I have worked with various agencies and organizations that serve foster children and families. I am also passionate about child welfare policy and have spoken at the New Mexico Legislature on foster care issues.
I ran for NM State House of Representatives, District 16, on a platform for a better NM for children. I have mentored and trained parents in reunification with their children.
In addition to my work with foster children, I advocate for adoptive families. I believe all children deserve to be safe, loved, and have a permanent family.
With over 20 years in the accounting field, ranging from a bank teller and accountant to a federal auditor, I left corporate America. Instead, I started teaching math in Special Education at Title 1 schools. My experience in the public, charter, and private school sectors led me to comprehend the need for Foster Parents.
I am a small business owner in tax preparation and payroll for other small businesses. I have a Paralegal Associates Degree, a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, and currently completing my Master’s in Legal Studies- Compliance.
Every child deserves a safe, loving home, regardless of race or culture. I am the mother of five children, three of whom are adopted, and I am committed to making a difference in their lives.