4 days ago
Head Start program celebrates 60th anniversary
CLARKSBURG, (WBOY) — Each county in West Virginia has at least one Head Start program, and between Harrison, Lewis, Ritchie, and Gilmer counties, 318 students utilize this service every day.
Head Start programs throughout the United States are celebrating 60 years as the federally funded initiative that aids in preparing children for school readiness has impacted countless children and families since its inception.
Through creative curriculum, Head Start focuses its needs within four quadrants: school readiness, parent engagement, health/mental health services and child attendance.
The program services children between the ages of 3 and 5 whose family also falls within the complete percentile of the federal government's guideline of poverty level.
12 News spoke with the executive director of Central WV Community Action (CWVCAA), Philip Keith, on what the 60-year celebration means to him.
'Head Start has been engaged in early childhood education and providing these services for 60 years. 60 years providing services on early childhood development and early childhood education, and what you see when you visit Head Start classrooms is that all of that experience in operation,' Keith said.
Aside from its learning curriculum, Head Start aims to help children with their developmental needs, linking those who may need assistance in physical, occupational and speech therapies after the age of three to proper services.
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Beyond its students, Head Start also makes efforts to support parents as well.
Jennifer Tenney, Head Start parent and vice president of Head Start's policy council, spoke with 12 News on how the program has benefited her as a parent.
'It has benefited not only with helping my kids learn and the extra support my kids need, but also a lot of people don't know that you can apply for things. When I actually went back to school to finish my degree, I applied for some help through the Head Start program, and they actually helped me pay my tuition for my last two semesters so I could get my degree,' Tenney said.
With federal budget cuts looming over programs just like this one, staff of the program are still remaining positive as they believe their purpose goes much deeper than a paycheck.
Clarksburg Head Start's lead teacher, Penny Stewart, spoke with 12 News on why she chose on to get involved in this career.
'There's something in you that you want to give back and I've always said I didn't come to Head Start for the paycheck, I came because the rewards it gives me and being that bright light for children and families and knowing that I am making a difference to make this world a better place,' Stewart said.
CWCAA's Head Start is currently accepting enrollment. You can learn more about how to enroll your child through its website or by calling 304-622-8495.
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