SIUE Head Start/Early Head Start Thanks Parents with Recognition Activities
Parents are powerful leaders of change in an early childhood program, according to Carolyn Jason, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Head Start/Early Head Start interim program director.
To recognize parents, the SIUE Head Start/Early Head Start program held a Family Fun Day Celebration on Friday, May 20 at all of its centers, according to Lisa Tate, Head Start/Early Head Start assistant program director/center operations.
“The celebrations consisted of creating fun interactive outdoor activities for children and their families to enjoy,” explained Tate. “At the conclusion of the activities, each center coordinator, along with her family advocates, acknowledged the accomplishments of their parents throughout the program year.”
Parents received award certificates in the areas of:
- Attendance
- Education and Training
- Male Involvement
- Policy Council
- Volunteering
Angela Glass-Howard, a parent from Belleville HS/EHS, was named the parent of the year and will receive a recognition plaque from the program.
“Co-creation, collaboration, and a sense of connection with their children’s education are the keys to effective child-parent-staff partnerships,” said Jason. “Our parents who were recognized during this celebration embody all of the key elements mentioned. Their children’s development is the proof that having parents who are involved in their child’s growth and development is a winning situation for everyone!”
The SIUE Head Start/Early Head Start Program serves more than 860 families and children birth through age five, including children with special needs, throughout St. Clair County. The program also provides services to expectant mothers. The program is housed in 12 early childhood centers, seven managed directly by SIUE staff and five collaborations. The program includes a rigorous school readiness program and provides comprehensive services, such as health/ dental screenings and family engagement and support activities.
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Parents were recognized and celebrated during the SIUE Head Start/Early Head Start’s Family Fun Day.
