[ Head Start ]

Head Start

The Head Start Program was developed in 1965 by parents who believed that no one had a greater interest in the education of a child than their family. This is the foundation of the Head Start Philosophy. Parents are involved at all levels of the program, and are an integral part of decision making in many ways. Parents of current Head Start children participate in the hiring of staff, approval of spending, and changes in curriculum, just to name a few. In addition, federal funds received by Head Start programs are contingent on demonstrated family involvement.

Approach and Curriculum

Staff work closely with parents to develop and implement a curriculum which provides each child with opportunities for success, builds self-esteem, and creates positive attitudes toward learning. They offer a variety of developmentally appropriate, hands-on activities to foster a positive self-concept. Teachers know each child well and design activities based on their knowledge of individual children's differing abilities, developmental levels, and approaches to learning.

When daily programming is planned, attention is given to the following guidelines:

• All children play outdoors daily, weather permitting.
• The schedule allows time for alternating periods of quiet and active play.
• A balance of large muscle and small muscle activity is provided.
• More than one option for group activity (individual, small group, or large group) is available to children during the day.
• The amount of time spent in staff-initiated, large group activity is limited.
• Children have the opportunity to experience learning in other settings as a variety of field trips are taken throughout the school year.
• Children have access to a great variety of materials each day, including creative art, blocks, dramatic play, sand, water, woodworking, language arts, books, music, cooking, movement, and the outdoors to enhance children's development in the areas of academic readiness, motor, self-help, social/emotional and health/nutrition.
• Literacy is emphasized. A print-rich classroom environment is provided, full of exciting opportunities for learning, and many activities support pre-literacy skills.

Families considering the Head Start program are welcome to make an appointment to observe classroom activities to aid them in the decision-making process. Parents of children enrolled in the program are welcome to visit the classroom at any time during the school day.