Sharing Web Resources Part 2:

At the beginning of the course I chose the site National Head Start Association. This week we were asked to expand our knowledge of the organization.

Follow some of the outside links that you have not yet explored. Where do they lead?

When searching the website none of the links I found go offsite. I did learn that Head Start got an increase in federal funding. The $610 million increase will give children the opportunity for a head start. “This increase will mean that programs can better support teachers and staff, more children will have access to full-day, full-year early child education, and more infants and toddlers will start off life with the Head Start advantage” (National Head Start Association).

The negotiated omnibus FY 2018 appropriations bill released late Wednesday night includes $9.853 billion for Head Start and Early Head Start, a $610 million increase over FY 2017 funding. The bill includes:

·         $216 million for a cost of living adjustment (COLA) for Head Start staff (approximately a 2.2% increase, which is in line with inflation)

·         $260 million for partial day, partial-year programs to extend the duration of their services to better meet the needs of working families

·         $755 million for Early Head Start Expansion and Child Care Partnerships (a $115 million increase over FY 2017).

Thoroughly search one area of the site. What do you find?

I chose The Dollar Per Child campaign. The Dollar Per Child campaign is NHSA annual fundraiser that helps us ensure millions of children and families are represented in Washington, D.C. The DPC is the main funding for Head Start advocates. Head Start provides children with an opportunity. Through Dollar per Child (DPC), NHSA ensures that the voices of these at-risk children and their families are heard. You can make donations through their website or by sending checks.

If you receive an e-newsletter, follow a link related to one of the issues you have been studying. What new information is available?

I have not gotten a newsletter as of yet.

Does the website or the e-newsletter contain any information that adds to your understanding of equity and excellence in early care and education?

“Head Start supports families facing difficult circumstances and seeks to mitigate obstacles to learning in the early years” (National Head Start Association). The Head Start program main focus is to help families and children from low-income families. The program provides education for children to grow. It also provides health services to children. Parent Involvement is a big in the Head Start program. They serve on the policy council and volunteer in the classroom and also participate in classes and workshops.

What other new insights about issues and trends in the early childhood field did you gain this week from exploring the website and/or the e-newsletter?

I learned that if you are an alumni or if your child attended the Head Start program you can join a campaign to encourage former Head Start children and parents to identify themselves. They can share their experience with other former members. They will also have opportunities for professional growth.

Reference:

National Head Start Association http://www.nhsa.org/