Director's Corner

          St. Clair County Head Start… the staff, the families, the community hold a special place in my heart. You see, I am the product of Head Start. I am a perfect example of how St. Clair County Head Start is “… dedicated to providing services to children and their families in order to empower them to succeed.”

          Over thirty years ago, I walked through the doors of St. Clair County Head Start looking to enroll my daughter in the program. It was then that I learned Head Start is so much more than preschool. I learned Head Start is a partnership between the program, the families, and the community.  As a parent, I was welcomed, encouraged to volunteer and learned how Head Start serves the “whole” child, providing the health, dental, nutrition, transportation, social and educational services children need to be healthy, happy, safe and school ready. I learned how to be an advocate for my child as she transitioned into the public-school setting. That year, I served on the Parent Committee and Policy Council, and even substituted for pay, when needed.

          A few years down the road, when being a stay-at-home mom became impossible, I went to a place I knew I could fit in, a place where I could feel good about what I was doing. I joined St. Clair County Head Start as a full-time employee in August of 1999 as a Teacher Assistant. After taking advantage of the many opportunities offered by the program… four positions, three degrees, and almost 27 years later, I’m excited and proud to be Executive Director. If not for this program… the directors who preceded me and believed in my abilities and determination; the co-workers who encouraged me, kept me focused, and reminded me of why we do what we do, I know I wouldn’t be here today. You see, Head Start is no doubt a wonderful establishment; however, it was St. Clair County Head Start that empowered me to succeed.

         Nothing comes easy and this year has been a challenge for all. The program has faced and overcame many obstacles; some, we are still working our way around as we gain a better understanding, learn new skills, and forge new partnerships. Thank you all, staff, Board of Directors and Policy Council members for giving me the opportunity to lead such a dedicated team in providing high-quality early childhood education, supporting families, and advancing the program’s mission, to empower all to succeed.