Dear Friends, Staff, and Families,
We can hardly contain our excitement for what 2025 has in store for us. Rutland County Head Start and Early Head Start are brimming with anticipation for the upcoming opportunities!
Back in December 2024, we held a Strategic Planning Community Self-Assessment meeting with fantastic turnout from both community members and staff. During this gathering, we delved into program data, community trends, and our future goals. We have outlined our strategic, program, and school readiness objectives for 2025, which focus on fostering a sense of belonging, enhancing workforce development, boosting mental health initiatives, and ensuring children are prepared for school. Our priority is to cultivate an inclusive culture through activities that welcome all families, initiatives aimed at staff wellness, and professional development for teachers to enrich children’s learning experiences and readiness for kindergarten.
We're also ramping up our engagement with community partners like never before. In the upcoming months, we’re thrilled to offer:
- A Castleton VTSU/ Arts and Expression class at our Literacy Family Resource, Art & Literacy Center this Spring, enriching our Head Start children's arts education.
- Yo Re Mi yoga and movement sessions for Head Start families, staff, and children, in collaboration with the Vermont Arts Council.
- Teacher training in the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education for all Lead Teachers.
- Circle of Security training for our Head Start educators.
- Monthly playdates at Wonderfeet Kids' Museum for our Rutland community along with complimentary memberships for our families.
- Regular family nights at the Family Resource, Art & Literacy Center featuring movie nights, family meals, and other events.
In addition to these innovative initiatives, Rutland County Head Start and Early Head Start remain committed to enhancing the health, safety, and development of the children entrusted to our care. We serve more than 2,300 nutritious meals each month, including breakfast, snacks, and lunch. We conduct essential hearing, vision, and developmental screenings for all children in our programs. Moreover, we assist families in accessing vital health and dental services for their children. Our facilities are also thoughtfully designed to foster development, joy, and a love for learning every day.
As we anticipate the adventures of 2025, we are eager to learn from our youngest community members about creating a brighter and happier future!
-Donna Barrow, EdD
Director, Head Start and Early Head Start Director
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