Head Start
The Agency's Child Development Program makes a significant impact in the early development of children through the operation of Head Start Centers and Day Care Centers in six locations. All of the centers are licensed through the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Office of the Inspector General, Division of Regulated Child Care and nationally accredited through the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The centers also participate in the Kentucky STARS for KIDS NOW Childcare Quality Rating System.
The Blue Grass Head Start Program, promotes early language, literacy and numeracy skills and inspires creativity in the development of preschool children; encourages self confidence and self-sufficiency in families and strengthens partnership with existing community services. When needed services do not exist, the Blue Grass Head Start Program serves as a catalyst to create the delivery systems essential for healthier and stronger families. Head Start provides educational opportunities for both the children and their parents. Head Start also provides health services (medical and dental), nutrition, special services for children with disabilities, transportation, social services and parent involvement. Head Start parents are involved in the administrative and programmatic operations of the centers. Parents are recognized as the prime educators of their children and by participating in the program, they are provided the opportunity to enrich their parenting skills. Volunteers in the centers include parents, community representatives and community workers.
