“It takes a village.” For Georgina Georgelos, those words capture her journey as a mother, educator and advocate for her son.
Georgina was recently named 2026 Arizona Mother of the Year by American Mothers, Inc., an organization that recognizes and supports mothers through service, education and community. While the award is a tremendous honor, Georgina sees it as a reflection of the many people who have been part of her son Mateo’s journey.
A young man approaching adulthood, Mateo has diagnoses of Down syndrome, autism, global developmental delay and other complex needs. But as Georgina will tell you, he is more than his diagnoses.
Mateo loves reading, writing, music and learning. He learns at home through the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program.
Mateo has had the same music teacher for nine years, developing a relationship that’s an important part of his life. That sense of connection extends to the many people who support him. His teachers, therapists, tutors, medical professionals and others have all become part of his village.
During a particularly challenging time when Mateo stopped leaving the home, Encircle Families became an important source of support, providing Georgina with encouragement, a listening ear and guidance as she navigated this. Her experiences also inspired her to help other families.
Education and advocacy are central to Georgina’s life. She spent 32 years teaching kindergarten in Title I schools and another 12 years teaching college Spanish. She also participated in the LEND program, strengthening her knowledge and skills as a disability advocate.
Today, Georgina continues to share resources, support other parents and advocate for children and young adults with disabilities. “If something I have learned can help another family, I want to share it,” she said. “No one should ever feel that they have to do this alone.”
Being named Arizona Mother of the Year is a beautiful recognition, Georgina said, but her greatest honor is being Mateo’s mother, advocate, teacher and one of the strongest voices in his village.”
