Head Start Self-Sufficiency

Self Sufficiency

Parent Engagement:

          We recognize that the goals for children in Head Start programs could not be met without parental engagement.  Our strong focus on parents sets us apart from other social service programs. We use a variety of strategies to engage parents including teaching them the importance of their role in the education and healthy development of their children. Head Start provides opportunities for parents to contribute to Head Start program management by encouraging them to participate in classroom committees and policy council.  Head Start believes that parents are the primary educator of their child and are urged to be an advocate for their children and their education. 

Parent Education and Family Development:

          Head Start aims to educate the entire family and to assist parents in their personal and family development. Head Start utilizes an individualized approach to parent education based on the identified interests, strengths and the needs of each family member. Case managers work intensely with parents to create goals and to build their capacity as individuals and as families on their path to living self-sufficient lives.  

Community Resources:

     Head Start had established strong partnerships in the community.  Collaborations between community agencies plays a crucial role in the comprehensive services that Head Start provides children and their families.   Many families are simply unaware of the resources our community has to offer in adult education, social services, and counseling, to name just a few.  By helping to provide access to these community resources, Head Start gives families a way to reach out and develop the foundations they need to reach their goals.   These strong community partnerships ensure a seamless delivery of services to families and help avoid the obstacles that often play a large role in the cycle of poverty.