Head Start Sand Box Summer 2016 R7HSA

Summer 2016

HEAD START

SAND BOX Where Young Learners Play to Learn

TM

Strengthening Our Legacy

On the Road to School Readiness www.R7HSA.com Photo courtesy of the Office of Head Start

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Te o

Director’s Letter

W

elcome to the summer edition of the Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM Magazine! We have some fantastic articles for you to read and there are some new features you will want to check out. We have new corporate sponsors and information to keep you up to date on all the latest events on in Region VII. You will want to check out our new website. The address is the same as before, www.R7HSA.com, but you will find a very new experience, and I invite you to check it out and to review the new features it has to offer. The website is updated with new content regularly. You will see additional information for each of our sponsors and special coupons that are only available on our website. Watch for some Dollar Per Child information with added bonuses coming soon!

We are also excited to announce a new contest for our 2017 R7HSA Annual Conference. We will be asking you, as grantees and delegate agencies, to put your thinking caps on and come up with a conference theme. The grantee/delegate with the theme chosen will be awarded a complimentary registration to the 2017 R7HSA Annual Conference and Pre-Conference.

Check the website for further details!

In case you hadn’t noticed, we are working to ramp up our presence on social media through our website, Twitter, and Facebook. Take some time to like us on those sites, follow us and encourage your legislators — local, county, state, and federal — to keep up with what is happening in Region VII. The wider our reach, the more impact we make and the louder our voice to effect positive change for children and families!

Engage your community to make a difference!

Best wishes and happy reading,

Summer 2016

What’s Inside?

6

Alumni Search

7 Breaking News: New Program Performance Standards Announced 8 A Change of Focus: Linda Benoit shares her Passion for Early Childhood, and Photography 10 Head Start and the Evolving Concept of Family Involvement 12

Reflection of Fathers

14

Head Start: Beyond 50 Years

16 New Ways to Approach School Readiness in Home Visiting 18

Dollar Per Child

19

2016 Awards

23

RVII Annual Review

26

Collaboration Office Contacts

28

State Grantee Lists

32

Calendar of Events

Michael Schiller Interim Executive Services Director

Contact us at: R7HSA, 233 SW Greenwich Dr., Ste. 105, Lee’s Summit, MO 64082 Phone: 816.520.8408 Email: R7HSA@comcast.net | R7HSA.com

R7HSA.com

The Region VII Head Start Sand Box™ Magazine is published by Region VII Head Start Association. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect R7HSA’s opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. R7HSA does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in the Region VII Head Start Sand Box™ Magazine is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

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Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

e a s to d i r u o E m a i l y o m c a st . n e t @c R7HSA

CHECK OUT THE ALL-NEW REGION VII WEBSITE! We are really excited to announce the launch of this amazing new online tool. Here you’ll find upcoming events, important news, and valuable resources.

We look forward to your feedback!

Visit us at

R7HSA.com See the website for

SPECIAL OFFERS from our sponsors!

Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

5

Do you know a Head Start Alumni?

We want to hear from them!

There are hundreds of success stories out there, of former students, parents, staff, and volunteers who have taken their experience with Head Start and gone on to do amazing things in their life.

We are reaching out to you because we need your help in locating these success stories. We want to spotlight these inspirational people in the next issues of the Region 7 Head Start Sandbox Magazine.

If you know a Head Start Alumni student, parent, staff or volunteer, please put us in touch with them so we can gather our community of Head Start alumni together to celebrate them, and Head Start’s 50+ Years of Opportunity.

Send and email to us at r7hsa@comcast.net.

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Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

September 1, 2016 The Office of Head Start (OHS) announced in the Federal Register the first comprehensive revision of the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) since their original release in 1975. The new standards build upon 50 years of leadership in comprehensive early childhood services and will further raise the quality of Head Start programs.

HSPPS HHS has made the first holistic revision and complete reorganization of the Performance Standards since they were originally published in 1975. Effective starting November 2016.

Fact Sheet The new Standards encourage the use of data for programs to ensure a continuous quality improvement process, reducing administrative burden and allowing grantees to focus on outcomes over process.

Program Instruction (PI) Review the Final Rule around the HSPPS for key changes, effective dates, implementation support, and next steps.

Q&A Explore questions and answers surrounding the release of the new Head Start Program Performance Standards

For more information, visit eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc/hs/new-policy

Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

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A Change of Focus Linda Benoit

Regional TTA Coordinator

Linda Benoit Shares Her Passion for Early Childhood, and Photography

L

inda Benoit entered her professional career through Early Childhood Special Education. She taught infants, toddlers, and preschool aged special needs children for several years, in both home and center-based settings. Linda then moved to Wyoming and worked for the Wyoming Department of Education Special Education Unit and the Department of Health and Human Services. She served as the Early Childhood Special Education Consultant in both departments, worked with the State Child Care Licensing Board, and was active in developing state legislation for Welfare Reform. During her time in Wyoming, Linda worked with Special Education Preschools and with Head Start programs to ensure that children with special needs received the services they needed. Linda was part of a group that developed a statewide parent advocacy and education program through a large grant. Linda also worked at the New Mexico Department of Education as the Early Childhood Special Education

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Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

Consultant. While there, she also worked with the Department of Health and Human Services, again focusing on infants, toddlers and preschool aged children with special needs.

Linda moved back to Kansas and became the Head Start Director for Barton, Pawnee and Rice Counties. As Director, she worked with multiple school districts, special education cooperatives, county health departments, etc. to increase the capacity of services to young children and their families. She served as Director for close to 10 years before moving into the Head Start Training and Technical Assistance System. Linda entered the TTA System as the Disabilities Content Specialist before moving into various other positions within the system. Linda has been with the Regional TTA System for the past 13 years, the last 7 serving as the Regional TTA Coordinator.

While working with young children and their families is a passion, it can also be stressful. Linda was looking for something that would help balance out her work life and home life. Linda has taken photographs for many years, but suddenly started gaining interest in 2002. Around that time, her family and friends started talking about her photos and encouraged her to sell them. Although not ready to retire from her position with TTA, Linda feels she has found a good balance with her weekend photography. She finds the change of focus from her everyday work is a great stress reliever. Linda and her husband Jim often can be found driving through the countryside on weekends with cameras in hand. Favorite subjects are flowers, old barns, and most things in nature.

In August of 2015, Linda decided to “put her toe in the water” by developing a website for her photos. Now, a year later, she has had well over 10,000 visitors to the website and has had several sales. She has been entering a variety of contests and groups resulting in many of her photos being featured.

“I once told a new Director to not let your career in Head Start take over your life.” I said that based on personal experience. It is so often the case that those that are in Head Start are so passionate, that we are completely consumed by our work. While that is not always terrible, it can take a toll on your health and personal life.

‘‘

There is much beauty in the world, but we often are too busy to see it. Photography allows me to see the world in a different way. I hope you enjoy the bits and pieces of our world that I have captured.

— Linda Benoit

In the field of early care and education, we love what we do.

So, we need to take care of ourselves in order to continue our work. I encourage each of you to develop a balance in your life.

Find more than one passion so you can continue your amazing journey longer, and in a more positive manner. Take care of you, so you can take care of others!!

See more of Linda’s amazing photos at

linda-benoit.pixels.com Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

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Photos courtesy of the Office of Head Start

Head Start and the Evolving Concept of Family Involvement

By Sarah Merrill Source: eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov

D

id you know that Head Start was the first child development

At the creation of Head Start, the concept of parent involvement

program to include intentional involvement of parents and

was controversial. The recommendation for parents to be a part

family engagement in all aspects of services? The program was de-

of program governance was radical. Previously, all other programs

signed to promote the growth and development of parents and their

placed parents in separate groups from their children, or simply ig-

children. The Planning Committee for Head Start felt that children

nored them.

would benefit from their parents’ direct involvement in the program.

They agreed that the best way for parents to learn about child devel-

Although parent involvement was written into law in 1967, their

opment was by participating with their children in the daily activi-

role in governance was spelled out for the first time in 1970 through

ties of the program.

Part B in the Head Start Policy Manual. This policy was also known

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Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

as 70.2. Policy 70.2 defined the responsibilities of Policy Councils at the program, delegate, and agency levels. At that time, many Head Start grantees—especially those in public school settings—called Washington, DC and threatened to leave Head Start because 70.2 gave so much authority to parents.

We’ve come a long way since then. In 1996, Head Start Program Performance Standards reminded us that parent involvement means partnering with them. The Head Start Parent, Family, and Community Engagement (PFCE) Framework, released in 2011, reinforced the idea that it also means engaging them in how the program works.

These are important tasks, but they can be hard to accomplish. At times, it may still feel controversial. Take heart. Actively partnering with families in the daily operations of your program empowers them to be actively engaged in the development and learning of their children!

Ensuring family members are deeply involved in the decision-making processes isn’t easy. How did the first Head Start programs figure out what to do? The Parent Involvement 1O-A Workbook of Training Tips Head for Head Start Staff was published in early 1969 to:

• Clarify the parent involvement process

• Explain the governance advisory committees and council

• Outline duties for each of the advisory committees

• Propose staff roles to actively support parent involvement

•O ffer ways parents could be involved in the program, such as volunteers or paid workers

• List the chances to support parents and their children

• Suggest topics for parent meetings

Parents and family members have been and continue to be wonderful contributors to the Head Start program. Since the beginning, they have provided a great deal of support for Head Start programs and the children they serve.

Want to see footage from the 1960s? The LBJ Library YouTube channel has a collection of videos worth watching.

Sarah Merrill is a Program Specialist for the Office of Head Start.

Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

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Photos courtesy of the Office of Head Start

Reflections of Fathers

By David A. Jones

Source: eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov

I

f you sit quietly and observe an engaged father interacting

or provide for me. He didn’t teach me how to grow into manhood.

with his child, it can be awe inspiring. If they have cultivated

I was fortunate to have other individuals in my life that fulfilled

their dance based upon a secure sense of trust and reciprocity, any

the role. Today, I evaluate how different my life might have been

observer might gasp. The only way practitioners can experience

had he been there. And then I remember it was his absence that

this, or ever get to witness it, is if they provide the space for fathers

instilled in me a desire to be an awesome father. I can laugh now,

to be themselves. I’m not just referring to the physical space within

but I admit I was clueless. How could I provide for them some-

program environments. I’m talking about the emotional space, the

thing that was not offered to me? I decided to start by just being

same emotional space afforded to mothers who are somewhere

there from day one. I tried with all of my heart and soul to give,

along the developmental trajectory of parenting but still need a lot

within reason, what I had not received. I was learning along the

of guidance and support to grow. They are not judged! They inspire

way, becoming increasingly more comfortable and confident in my

curiosity and a desire to help. Staff are eager to learn about their

capabilities.

past, make sense of it, and help mothers see how it has shaped their present. They are engaged in a process of discovery of inter-

David and sons

ests, opportunity, and conversations about their futures. Futures

I realize I am not very much different than millions of other

that involve them and their children!

men who find themselves saddled with the awesome responsibility of having to father a child when they have not been fathered them-

It’s been a little over a year since my father died. He was 81 years old, which is a long time to be on this earth. He did not raise me,

selves. Yet, in most instances, they do the best they can, drawing upon their own experiences and things they learned along the way.

Negotiating unbelievable hurdles and still finding ways to meet

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Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

with success. However, if you were to ask them about their level

With confidence, their competence increases and they are able to

of comfort walking into an early childhood education setting, you

strengthen the social and emotional relationships that drive every-

would receive a number of different responses.

thing they do when they understand their role, commit to it, and are supported in enhancing their capacity to fulfill that role. Early

A small percentage might say they were comfortable, some

childhood educators are in a unique position to support all parents,

would tell you they are a little leery. Others would tell you child

and especially fathers. It begins by being genuine and not patroniz-

care programs are for mothers. For many men, at least initially,

ing them or over-celebrating them for their efforts. Remember to

the feeling has nothing to do with how they’ve been treated by

acknowledge them and don’t be afraid to ask questions about their

program staff or the physical space. It has more to do with their ed-

interactions with their children.

ucational history, their level of comfort with the role, how they see themselves positioned next to their children, and how they define

A couple of weeks before my father died, during a telephone

their role. How will they be received and will they be judged? Many

conversation he told me he loved me and I told him I loved him.

struggle with finding a sense of ease or comfort in settings that

Despite the fact that he did not raise me, I was able to build a

have historically been deemed more appropriate for women.

relationship with him for the sake of my children, but for me as well. The ambivalence is deep within me and sometimes it surfaces

David attends son’s graduation

to the top and I am confronted with unresolved feelings. I have

Fathers who are engaged, who love their children, and are not

to wrestle with the fact that he failed me, by not being there, by

afraid to demonstrate that love, find ways to attach, bond, and

not providing for me, and by not laying the ground work for me to

build social and emotional relationships with their children. They

develop a healthy sense of self. Fortunately, my mother was a loving

find comfort embracing their roles and responsibilities because

individual and I am whole because of my relationship with her. Yet,

they know their children as well as, and in some instances better

there is a void when it comes to my father. It took a long time to

than, some of the mothers we encounter. They too engage in the

fully understand me because I did not know him.

functional parenting practices that are observable and many more that are not so observable. Fathers are planning for their children,

Still, I advocate daily for fathers and mothers to have equal say,

wondering about them, and quietly watching over them as they

and an equal place at the table when it comes to their children.

negotiate developmental trajectories, parenting in ways that cannot

Head Start programs are in a prime position to create welcoming

be measured.

environments and establish meaningful relationships with fathers so all parents feel welcome. As we embark upon Father’s Day 2016,

If we were as curious about fathers as we are about mothers, if

let’s extend ourselves a little more. Find ways to engage and build

we were as thoughtful in our interactions, our communications,

stronger relationships with fathers across the Head Start universe

our exploratory conversations, and our developing and designing

for their sake and the sake of their children.

support for them, they too would thrive. Not just as fathers, but as individuals and as men who love their children and families.

David A. Jones is the Father Engagement Specialist for the Office of Head Start.

Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

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Photos courtesy of the Office of Head Start

Head Start: Beyond 50 Years

By Dr. Blanca Enriquez

I

f I love celebrating birthdays! Birthdays provide a chance to

involving parents in program governance, and ensuring the families

reflect on past accomplishments and to focus on new oppor-

we serve receive high-quality comprehensive services. I am thrilled

tunities and growth. May 18 is often thought of as Head Start’s

our mission continues to be a central part of this administration’s

birthday, since it was on this day in 1965 that President Lyndon B.

efforts to ensure children have access to high-quality early learning

Johnson officially announced Project Head Start from the White

opportunities. As always, I look forward to what the next year has

House Rose Garden. Since then, we’ve established an impressive

in store.

history as a national leader in early childhood development and education. We’ve also expanded our services to migrant and seasonal

In the fiscal year 2017 budget, President Obama proposed $9.6

families, tribal communities, infants and toddlers, and pregnant

billion for Head Start programs. Out of that, $292 million in new

women.

money would go towards the continued expansion of the number of children who receive full school day and full school year services.

Head Start’s mission has always been to prepare children for kindergarten. We do this by collaborating with community partners,

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Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

This funding, along with the supplemental funding we announced in April to extend the duration of services, would mean we could

offer a full school day and full school year program to more than half of all Head Start children.

President Obama also has proposed $645 million to continue expanding Early Head Start and Early Head Start-Child Care Partnerships. These partnerships allow local Early Head Start grantees to join with child care providers to ensure infants and toddlers receive high-quality early care and education. Providing comprehensive services to children and their families is what sets Head Start apart from many other early childhood education programs, and I’m pleased that we can share what we do with our child care partners.

I am also excited about the impending release of our new Head Start Program Performance Standards—standards first published in the 1970s and last revised in 1998. Last year, when we published a notice of proposed rule making, we had two overarching goals: to simplify and streamline program performance standards to improve transparency and implementation, and to improve program quality.

We considered the great feedback we received from you and we believe we have met those goals. We anticipate our new Program Performance Standards will be released this summer.

The cornerstones of Head Start, along with the comprehensive nature of the Performance Standards, are hallmarks of high quality.

But it’s all of you who bring the program to life on a daily basis.

You are vital to the Head Start mission, but more importantly you are critical to the children and families within your local communities. I hope you use every May 18 as a time to reflect on the ways your program can continue to grow, learn, and improve.

Happy birthday, Head Start!

Dr. Blanca Enriquez is the Director at the Office of Head Start.

Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

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New Ways to Approach School Readiness in Home Visiting

By Patty Marickovich and Amanda Bryans Source: eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov

I

t’s been a series of dreary days in Washington, DC. As we watch the steady, heavy downpour of cold springtime rain

What comes to mind when you hear those two essential words: school readiness? Home visitors work with the families in many

from the Head Start office, our discussion drifts to how the home

ways to achieve that readiness—helping set goals with parents,

visitors are doing in our community. They are out in this soaking

making sure the child is eating well and growing up healthy, and

weather, visiting families and honoring their work of building part-

teaching parents how to build their child’s brain. These compre-

nerships with each parent who invites them into their homes. They

hensive services unfurl the child’s development and the family’s

are out there providing the essential comprehensive services that

network of support. It is important to think about each family’s

are the foundation of school readiness.

progress and what we hope to accomplish in partnership with parents.

Yes, home visiting does provide school readiness, and has since Head Start began in 1965. We are certain that each of our nation’s

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Children have a way of enriching us as a family, in our profes-

7,445 home visitors could name the five central domains of early

sions, and as human beings. There are principles that underpin

learning because every element is essential for school and long-

how parents and home visitors approach the development of their

term success:

children. The key principles are:

• • • • •

needs, emerging skills, and interests as they grow.

Language and Literacy Cognition Approaches to Learning Physical Health and Motor Development Social and Emotional Development

Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

Listen to what each child communicates to discern individual

Empower parents during every home visit, especially when reflecting together during joint planning times to ensure progress. Planning ahead for the next home visit or socialization results in a fuller experience for everyone, especially the children.

The daily growth of each child is a source of great joy.

We are charged with an awesome responsibility to prepare children for their road along life’s path. The future is wide open; children, parents, and home visitors can dream boldly!

ide Op t’s Gasasu n tion areStanrtrt Ho ram Optio ogram Prog AP ed Pr e-B ed me-B Hom Sta ad ad He e He the To To th

There are many resources available in the area of home visiting. The Home-Based Program

Option portal on the Early Childhood Learning and Knowledge (ECLKC) website offers a

great opportunity to reflect on whether your program’s home visiting school readiness services are as intentional as they could be. Look there to find resources to support home visitors’ work with children and families.

OpenDoors is an interactive tool for home visitors, their supervisors, directors, and others.

The Parents’ Guide to Home-Based Program Options shares ideas that can enhance the unique partnership between the parent and home visitor.

We all have a role to play. This portal offers a conduit to supporting healthy parent and

child relationships, another cornerstone of school readiness. We hope that you take the time to explore this new portal and discover fresh ways to assure school readiness success for every child entrusted to us.

By the way, please be assured that our conversations drift to our 7,445 home visitors on days when the weather is favorable and sunny, too!

Patty Marickovich is the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Coordinator for the Office of Head Start, and Amanda Bryans is the Education and Comprehensive Services Division Director for the Office of Head Start.

Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

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Region VII Head Start Association Supports the NHSA Dollar Per Child Campaign! www.nhsa.org/advocacy/advocacy/dollar_per_child

Help us reach our goal of

$1.00 for every child served across Region VII.

Let’s keep the window of opportunity open for the next fifty years!

Region VII Head Start 2015/2016 Goal:

$38,629

That’s 38,629 children!

IOWA

$7,761

Your dollars will help ensure ...

KANSAS

$8,665

... parents, staff and alumni have an opportunity to tell their stories about the importance of Head Start in their lives and communities.

$16,724

... a Head Start presence on Capitol Hill.

NEBRASKA

... the building of non-partisan relationships with Head Start champions in Congress and the Administration. ... the expansion of a local media presence of Head Start.

MISSOURI

$5,479

Help us today!

... a national media exposure for local voices.

www.R7HSA.com 18

Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

2016 REGION VII HEAD START AWARD WINNERS AUBREY PUCKETT MEMORIAL AWARD

Mary Brown

Douglass Community Services, MO SUPPORT STAFF OF THE YEAR

Linda Hatch

Head Start Child & Family Development Program, NE TEACHER OF THE YEAR

Michelle Dannels

Early Childhood Connections, USD 489, KS HEAD START PARENT OF THE YEAR

Rachel Luke

Southeast Kansas Community Action Program, Inc., KS BEATING THE ODDS PARENT AWARD

Jennifer Blum

Central Nebraska Community Services, NE*

SCHOLARSHIPS HEAD START ALUMNI, HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR

Andi Plock

Central Nebraska Community Services, NE HEAD START PARENT, POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION

Caressa Jensen

Southeast Kansas Community Action Program, Inc., KS* HEAD START STAFF, HIGHER EDUCATION

Tammy Classen

Central Nebraska Community Services, NE*

CONGRATULATIONS! *NHSA Winners

Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

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2016 CHILDREN’S STATE CHAMPION AWARD RECIPIENTS

IOWA CHILDREN CHAMPION RECIPIENT

CHRIS CARMAN

Director, Linn County Child Development Center, Cedar Rapids, IA Chris Carman is a visionary, collaborator, a change-maker and an advocate. As childcare director, he was always willing to assist families in need. Chris not only listened, but he did all he could to try to solve the issues at hand continually supporting families with their day to day needs as well as educating them to become better parents.

He taught advocacy practices to parents, staff and community members. He was often on the road meeting with local leaders and state legislators to discuss the importance of support and funding for early childhood programs and what it means to the future of our communities. He saw the gaps in early child hood programming and took steps toward change. He has attended thousands of committee meetings and advanced early childhood issues at local, state and federal levels.

In addition to being a tireless champion for children and families, Chris is also an artist, musician and someone who cares. He loves to play guitar and sing with the children; he cares about the struggles of low income families and children; and he cares that all children, especially those who are at risk or have special needs, have access to quality education at an early start. Chris Carman is a Children’s Champion.

KANSAS CHILDREN CHAMPION RECIPIENT

LEADELL EDIGER Child Care Aware®

Leadell Ediger has been Executive Director of Child Care Aware® of Kansas (formerly the Kansas Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agency) since 1996.

Previously she was the director of a local CCR&R and was instrumental in the development of the Kansas CCR&R network beginning in 1990.

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Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

2016 CHILDREN’S STATE CHAMPION AWARD RECIPIENTS

MISSOURI CHILDREN CHAMPION RECIPIENT

KATHY NICHOLSON Palmyra R-I School District

Kathy Nicholson has been with the Palmyra R-I School District for 26 years and currently serves as the Early Childhood Coordinator/Parent Educator with the Parents as Teachers program. She is a proud 25 year partner with Head Start within both her local community and at the state level. She is active in a variety of early childhood committees and issue driven initiatives at the local, state and regional levels as well as various civic groups in her community including 4-H. She serves as a consultant with both Missouri Parents as Teachers and the Parents as Teachers-National Center. Kathy recently retired after 9 years of service on the Douglass Community Services and MO Head Start Association Board of Directors where she was an impactful Officer of the Board and tireless advocate for children and families. Kathy enjoys sewing, gardening and spending time with her husband, Don, their two children and grandchildren.

NEBRASKA CHILDREN CHAMPION RECIPIENT

JEFF FORTENBERRY Congressman

Jeff Fortenberry represents Nebraska’s First Congressional District in the United House of Representatives. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee, which is responsible for the expenditure of the United States government. He serves on three subcommittees with importance for our national and economic security: Energy and Water, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and State and Foreign Operations. In Congress, Jeff serves as co-chair of the Nuclear Security Working Group, co-chair of the Caucus on Religious Minorities in the Middle East, and co-chair of the Congressional Study Group on Europe.

Prior to serving in Congress, Jeff worked as a publishing industry executive in Lincoln, where he also served on the Lincoln City Council from 1997-2001. Jeff also has significant personal experience in small business, public policy analysis, and economic development. Jeff earned a bachelor’s degree in economics and two master’s degrees, one in public policy. He and his wife Celeste live in Lincoln and have five daughters. His work in Congress is rooted in the belief that the strength of our nation depends on the strength of our families and communities.

Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

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2016 TOM MAYER AWARD OF EXCELLENCE ANN JOHNSON, Ph.D Dr. Ann Johnson has been an advocate on all levels of early childhood education, Head Start and Early Head Start. She has worked to establish effective program guidance and policies from the Regional office, which support high quality program functioning at the local level. Her experience as a teacher and program director has helped her recognize strengths and needs in local programs. She has pressed programs to grow, innovate and constantly improve to serve children in the best possible way.

She has been a strong advocate for Head Start and Early Head Start services for homeless children and families recognizing the challenges they are faced with on a daily basis.

Ann Johnson has taught early education at the college level striving to create a high quality workforce for local programs and child care providers. She has provided workshops on meeting the classroom needs when qualified teachers are scarce. She has worked to bring access to education and opportunities to students through Distance Learning and Coaching.

Ann has met with the Kansas delegations at national EHS meetings on numerous occasions to hear concerns and work to identify strategies and opportunities to move early childhood education forward.

Ann Johnson’s experience spans three decades of working as a college professor, early childhood and Head Start Program Director and Office of Head Start Specialist.

Ann is a shining example of what it means to be a leader on the regional level. Region VII has benefited greatly from her presence. She is always upbeat, to the point and advocating for the programs she has served. Her work has strengthened the partnership between local programs and the regional office. She is always quick to respond to questions or concerns.

Dr. Ann Johnson’s leadership carries over into the community in other areas of advocacy as well.

Her role in Justice Matters, Lawrence, KS brings people together to consider and address issues of homelessness, crime and the need for quality early education.

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REGION VII HEAD START ASSOCIATION 2014 – 2015

MISSION STATEMENT The Region VII Head Start Association promotes and supports the effectiveness of Head Start Associations and members to ensure quality services for children and families.

Our vision is to be recognized as the premiere regional association in the nation.

Region VII represents eighty-six grantees located across Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska serving more than 38,000 children ages zero-five delivering community services using a comprehensive holistic approach. R7HSA is a not-for-profit 501 (c) 3 organization, launched in 1997. R7HSA serves as a vital link to the four state associations and the National Head Start Association. The organization is governed by a sixteen member board of directors.

Work of the Association is carried out through the following committees: Advocacy Committee, Executive/Finance Committee, Partnership/Membership Committee and Professional Development Committee.

FOUNDATIONS OF SUPPORT TM In support of the Association’s mission, R7HSA provides numerous Foundations of Support™ to member State Associations addressing the challenges of building a strong and supportive infrastructure that will ensure success and empower State Associations providing an opportunity to grow and expand while maintaining autonomy.

RVII COORDINATED TRAINING THINK TANK

The RVII Coordinated Training Think Tank is conducted bi-annually involving all Region VII Head Start entities in an effort to coordinate and identify state training opportunities; assess gaps and barriers in training; support and promote state-wide and regional trainings to ensure success; address federal initiatives; and strengthen programs through identified review findings.

NATIONAL PARTNERSHIP Region VII Head Start Association is a proud member of the National Head Start Association and fully represented with four filled active seats on the National Board of Directors.

Region VII is a member of the KC Chamber of Commerce Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

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REGION VII HEAD START ASSOCIATION 2014 – 2015

KEY FOCUS AREAS & DEFINED OUTCOMES

FINANCIAL REPORT: JULY 2014 – JUNE 2015

• Quality Professional Development

INCOME

Outcome: Professional Development in the region and states is strong and effective contributing to child and family successes

• Financial Stability and Resource Development

Outcome: R7HSA is financially healthy and responsive to the needs of member Associations

4 Contributed support 5 Earned revenues 6 Event Revenue TOTAL INCOME

7200 Salaries & related expenses 7500 Other personnel expenses 8100 Non-personnel expenses 8200 Occupancy expenses (Meeting rooms) 8300 Travel & meeting expenses 8400 Depreciation expense 8500 Misc. (Insurance & computer services) 8600 Business Exp (awards/scholarships)

Outcome: R7HSA is a model of innovation and best practices to support the four State Head Start Associations

• Advocacy / Public Policy

Outcome: Public policy positively impacts Head Start and all other children and families Outcome: R7HSA members, partners and affiliates value their partnership with each other

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116 33,195 282,773 316,084

EXPENSES

• Innovation and best practices to support the four State Head Start Associations

• Partnerships and Collaborations

70,875 21,365 33,264 66,008 22,575 240 6,721 3,687

TOTAL EXPENSES

224,735

NET INCOME

91,349

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Linda Bleything, MO — Director, President Deb Ross, NE — Director, Treasurer

R7HSA EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBERS Michael Schiller Interim Executive Services

Kim Sill, KS — Director, Secretary* Samantha McCarville, NE — Parent, Vice President* Kim Young-Kent, IA — Director Bob Russell, DDS, MPH, IA — Friend Michael Eller, IA — Parent, Board Member Julie Lang, IA — Staff Representative Terry Wilson, KS — Staff, Board Member* Tamika Sellars KS — Parent Sandy Patchen, KS — Friend, Board Member Pam La Frenz, MO — Friend, Board Member* Christie Ference, NE — Staff

Joan Luebbers Nebraska Head Start State Collaboration Office Ashley Blake Iowa Head Start Association Tom Rendon Iowa State Collaboration Project Erick Vaughn Kansas Head Start Association Kim Kennedy Kansas Head Start Collaboration Office Director Tina Bernskoetter, Executive Director Missouri Head Start Association

Arizona Brooks, NE — Friend, Board Member

Stacey Owsley Wright Missouri Head Start State Collaboration Office

Jonna Burns, MO — Parent Rep

Clarence Small, M.ED, Regional Program Manager (RPM)

Melinda Kirsch, MO — Staff Rep

Linda Benoit, Region VII Head Start Training/Technical Assistance Coordinator

*R7HSA - NHSA Representative

R7HSA pays tribute to the memory of Tracey Mavis who passed away in March of this year.

Tracey was a past board member of the Iowa Head Start Association and served as a IHSA Representative to the Regional Board from 2009-2015. During her tenure on the R7HSA Board, Tracey served as Vice President and R7HSA Representative to NHSA where she served as Parliamentarian. Tracey was formerly with the Matura Head Start Program.

She was a past Head Start parent who was passionate in her service to children and families.

STATE ASSOCIATION PRESIDENTS Iowa Head Start Association Michael Eller, President

www.iowaheadstart.com

Missouri Head Start Association Loletta Combs, Director of Family & Child Development

www.moheadstart.org

Kansas Head Start Association Deb McNeil, President

www.ksheadstart.org

Nebraska Head Start Association Deb Ross, President

www.neheadstart.org

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Collaboration Office Contacts IOWA HEAD START COLLABORATION OFFICE Thomas Rendon, Coordinator Phone: 515-326-5389 Fax: 515-242-5988 Email: Tom.Rendon@Iowa.gov

Website: www.educateiowa.gov/pk-12/early-childhood/head-start-state-collaboration-office

Iowa Head Start State Collaboration Office Iowa Department of Education, Bur of School Improv Grimes State Office Building 400 East 14th Street Des Moines, IA 50319-0146

KANSAS HEAD START COLLABORATION OFFICE Kim Kennedy, Director Phone: 785-368-6354 Fax: 785-296-0146 Email: Kimberly.Kennedy@dcf.ks.gov

www.dcf.kansas.org/ISD/ees/childcare_hs_coll.htm

Kansas Head Start -State Collaboration Office Department for Children and Families DCF Administration Building 555 South Kansas Ave Topeka, KS 66603

MISSOURI HEAD START COLLABORATION OFFICE Stacey Wright, Director Phone: 573-884-3080 Fax: 573-884-0598 Email: wrightst@missouri.edu

Website: www.moheadstart.org http://hdfs.missouri.edu/cfpr/centers_CFPR.html

Missouri Head Start State Collaboration Office Center for Family Policy and Research The Curators of the University of Missouri 1400 Rock Quarry Road Columbia, MO 65211-3280

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Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

NEBRASKA HEAD START COLLABORATION OFFICE Joan Luebbers, Director Phone: 402-471-2463 Fax: 402-471-0117 Alternate Phone: 402-471-3184 Email: Joan.luebbers@nebraska.gov Website: http://www.nde.state.ne.us/ech/HSSCO.html

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Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

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Iowa Grantees Community Action Agency Of Siouxland Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7093 Sioux City, IA

MATURA Head Start Head Start 07CH010349 Creston, IA

Community Action of Eastern Iowa Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7086 Davenport, IA

Mid-Iowa Community Action, Inc. Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH9996 Marshalltown, IA

Community Action Of Southeast Iowa Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7085 Burlington, IA

Mid-Sioux Opportunity, Inc Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7094 Remsen, IA

Drake University Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership 07HP0001 Des Moines, IA

New Opportunities, Incorporated Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7055 Carroll, IA

Drake University Head Start Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH9991 Des Moines, IA Hawkeye Area Community Action Program Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH010299 Hiawatha, IA Hawkeye Area Community Action Program,Inc. Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership 07HP0008 Hiawatha, IA

North Iowa Community Action Organization Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7089 Mason City, IA Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7091 Decorah, IA Operation: New View Community Action Agency Head Start 07CH010348 Dubuque, IA South Central Iowa Community Action Program Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7054 Chariton, IA

Source: eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov 28

Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

Southern Iowa Economic Development Association Head Start 07CH010264 Ottumwa, IA Tri-County Child & Family Development Council, Inc Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7073 Waterloo, IA Tri-County Child and Family Development Council, Inc. Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership 07HP0002 Waterloo, IA Upper Des Moines Opportunity, Inc Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7066 Graettinger, IA West Central Community Action Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7064 Harlan, IA Your Own United Resources, Inc. Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH010189 Fort Dodge, IA

Kansas Grantees CDI HS / Kansas River Valley, KS Head Start 90CH0119 Junction City, KS

Heartland Programs Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH10008 Salina, KS

CDI / South Central Kansas Head Start 90CH0071 McPherson, KS

Hutchinson Board Of Education Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7076 Hutchinson, KS

Child Start, Inc. Head Start 07CH7048 Wichita, KS

Kansas Children's Service League Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7071 Garden City, KS

Child Start, Inc. Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH010338 Wichita, KS

Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools, USD #500 Head Start 07CH7074 Kansas City, KS

Clay County Child Care Center Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7053 Clay Center, KS

Kickapoo Tribe In Kansas American Indian And Alaska Native Head Start/Early Head Start 90CI9829 Powhattan, KS

Community Action Inc Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7087 Topeka, KS Dodge City Public Schools, USD# 443 Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH10091 Dodge City, KS East Central Kansas Economic Opportunity Corporation Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7067 Ottawa, KS Futures Unlimited, Inc. Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH10056 Wellington, KS Growing Futures Early Education Center Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7052 Overland Park, KS

Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation American Indian And Alaska Native Head Start/Early Head Start 90CI9842 Mayetta, KS Southeast Kansas Community Action Program, Inc Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7088 Girard, KS

McPherson County Special Education Cooperative Head Start 07CH7079 Mcpherson, KS

Topeka Public Schools, Usd 501 Head Start 07CH010344 Topeka, KS Unified School District #383 Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7077 Manhattan, KS Unified School District 373 Head Start 07CH7049 Newton, KS

Northeast Kansas Community Action Program, Inc Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7068 Hiawatha, KS Northwest Kansas Educational Service Center Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7051 Oakley, KS Olathe Unified School District #233 Head Start 07CH7058 Olathe, KS

The Family Conservancy Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership 07HP0003 Kansas City, KS

University Of Kansas Medical Center Research Institute Early Head Start 07CH7075 Kansas City, KS USD #489 Early Childhood Connections Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH10096 Hays, KS USD 470, Cowley County Head Start Head Start 07CH010346 Arkansas City, KS

Source: eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

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Missouri Grantees

Central Missouri Community Action (CMCA) Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH10119 Columbia, MO

Children’s Therapy Center of Pettis County, Inc. Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership 07HP0005 Sedalia, MO Children’s Therapy Center Of Pettis County, Inc. Early Head Start 07CH7084 Sedalia, MO Community Action Partnership of Greater St. Joseph Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership 07HP0009 St. Joseph, MO Community Action Partnership of Greater St. Joseph Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH10134 Saint Joseph, MO Community Services Inc. of Northwest Missouri Head Start 07CH7082 Maryville, MO Delta Area Economic Opportunity Corporation Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership 07HP0011 Portageville, MO Delta Area Economic Opportunity Corporation Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH010292 Portageville, MO Douglass Community Services, Inc Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7062 Hannibal, MO

Source: eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov 30

Douglass Community Services, Inc. Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership 07HP0010 Hannibal, MO East Missouri Action Agency, Inc Head Start 07CH7061 Park Hills, MO Economic Security Corporation Of Southwest Area Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7095 Joplin, MO Grace Hill Settlement House Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH010155 Saint Louis, MO Jefferson Franklin Community Action Corporation Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH010347 Hillsboro, MO Mid America Regional Council Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7056 Kansas City, MO Missouri Ozarks Community Action, Inc. Head Start 07CH010350 Richland, MO Missouri Valley Community Action Agency Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7083 Marshall, MO Missouri Valley Community Action Agency Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership 07HP0006 Marshall, MO North Central Missouri College Head Start 07CH7090 Trenton, MO

Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

Northeast Missouri Community Action Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7059 Kirksville, MO Ozark Action, Inc Head Start 07CH7078 West Plains, MO Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH010221 Springfield, MO South Central Missouri Community Action Agency Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7069 Winona, MO Urban League Head Start Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH010154 Saint Louis, MO Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH010383 St. Louis, MO West Central Missouri Community Action Agency Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7080 Appleton City, MO Youth In Need Early Head Start 07CH7050 Saint Charles, MO Youth In Need Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership 07HP0007 Saint Charles, MO Youth In Need Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH010153 Saint Charles, MO YWCA of Metropolitan St. Louis Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH010382 St. Louis, MO

Nebraska Grantees Blue Valley Community Action, Inc Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7070 Fairbury, NE

Midland University Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7072 Fremont, NE

Plattsmouth Community School District Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7081 Plattsmouth, NE

Blue Valley Community Action,Inc. Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership 07HP0012 Fairbury, NE

Nebraska Early Childhood Collaborative, LLC Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership 07HP0004 Omaha, NE

Santee Sioux Tribe Of Nebraska American Indian and Alaska Native Head Start 90CI9851 Niobrara, NE

Central Nebraska Community Action Partnership Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH10017 Loup City, NE

Northeast Nebraska Community Action Partnership Inc Head Start 07CH7065 Pender, NE

Sarpy County Cooperative Head Start Head Start Early Head Start 07CH7063 Papillion, NE

Northeast Nebraska Community Action Partnership, Inc Early Head Start 07CH10099 Pender, NE

Southeast Nebraska Community Action Partnership, Inc Head Start 07CH7092 Humboldt, NE

Northwest Communtiy Action Partnership Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH010275 Chadron, NE

The Salvation Army Early Head Start Early Head Start 07CH010204 Omaha, NE

Omaha Public Schools Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH010261 Omaha, NE

Winnebago Tribe Of Nebraska American Indian and Alaska Native Head Start 90CI9827 Winnebago, NE

Community Action Partnership of Lancaster & Saunde Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH010387 Lincoln, NE Community Action Partnership of Mid-Nebraska Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7057 Kearney, NE Community Action Partnership Of Western Nebraska Migrant and Seasonal Head Start 90CM9800 Gering, NE Educational Service Unit No. 13 Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7096 Scottsbluff, NE Head Start Child & Family Development Program Inc Head Start/Early Head Start 07CH7060 Hastings, NE

Omaha Tribe Of Nebraska American Indian and Alaska Native Head Start 90CI9872 Macy, NE

Winnebago Tribe Of Nebraska American Indian and Alaska Native Early Head Start - Child Care Partnership 90HI0002 Winnebago, NE

Source: eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

THE ARCHITECTURE OF

LEADERSHIP REGION VII HEAD START

2016 ANNUAL DIRECTOR’S CAUCUS October 17th -19th

Pre-Track – October 17th Policy Summit – October 17th Caucus – 18th & 19th

Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center Independence, MO

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:

Making Connections on Purpose With Special Guest: Chris Zervas President, Summit Solution Group

233 SW Greenwich Dr., Ste. 105, Lee’s Summit, MO 64082 Phone: 816.520.8408 Email: michael@michaelschillerconsulting.com or R7HSA@comcast.net Website: www.R7HSA.com

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Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

KHSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING October 5, 2016 from 12:00 pm to 3:30 pm Location: TBA, Salina, KS

KANSAS EARLY HEAD START QUARTERLY MEETING September 1, 2016 from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm KHSA Partner DCF Administrative Bldg, 555 S. Kansas Ave., Topeka, KS 66603 1st Floor Conference Room 9:00 am to 2:30 pm

NEBRASKA HEAD START ASSOCIATION

NeHSA Annual Conference November 6-8 in Grand Island.

More details coming soon!

IOWA HEAD START ASSOCIATION

Parent Leadership Conference – 10/22/2016 Holiday Inn & Suites Northwest 4800 Merle Hay Rd, Des Moines, IA 50322

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

KANSAS EARLY HEAD START QUARTERLY MEETING September 1, 2016 from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm KHSA Partner DCF Administrative Bldg, 555 S. Kansas Ave., Topeka, KS 66603 1st Floor Conference Room 9:00 am to 2:30 pm

KHSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING October 5, 2016 from 12:00 pm to 3:30 pm Location: TBA, Salina, KS

IOWA HEAD START ASSOCIATION

Parent Leadership Conference – 10/22/2016 Holiday Inn & Suites Northwest 4800 Merle Hay Rd, Des Moines, IA 50322

NEBRASKA HEAD START ASSOCIATION

NeHSA Annual Conference November 6-8 in Grand Island.

More details coming soon!

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Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Region VII Head Start Sand BoxTM | Summer 2016

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