TABLE OF CONTENTS
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LETTER TO PARENTS VISION, MISSION, AND CORE BELIEFS HEAD START PRESCHOOL & EARLY HEAD START PROGRAM LOCATIONS GENERAL INFORMATION SAFE SCHOOLS SCHOOL MESSENGER MY RIGHTS AS A HEAD START PARENT MY RESPONSIBILITY AS A HEAD START PARENT PRESCHOOL EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSITION INFANT / TODDLER EDUCATION & DEVELOPMENT TRANSPORTATION DISABILITIES SERVICE AREA / MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE AREA HEALTH SERVICE REQUIREMENTS FAMILY PARTNERSHIP AND LEADERSHIP ELIGIBILITY, RECRUITMENT, SELECTION, ENROLLMENT & ATTENDANCE FAMILY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES / NUTRITION SERVICE FOR CHILDREN ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PROCEDURES FOR REPORTING SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE / NEGLECT PARENT ACKNOWLEDGMENT FORM
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LETTER TO PARENTS
Dear Head Start Parents, Welcome to ESC19 Head Start! On behalf of our entire team, I’m thrilled you’ve joined our Head Start family. Thank you for joining a community dedicated to your child’s development and your family’s success. As parents, you want the best for your children, and so do we. At Head Start, we provide a nurturing, high-quality early learning environment that helps children thrive and prepares them for a strong start in kindergarten and beyond. But our work doesn’t stop with the classroom. Head Start is a whole-family program. That means we are equally committed to supporting our parents and guardians with tools, resources, and opportunities for their personal growth. Parent involvement is at the heart of Head Start. We encourage you to actively participate in your child’s education and in shaping our program. You’ll have opportunities to participate in classroom activities, serve on parent committees, and help guide important decisions. As a former Head Start parent, I know how robust parent participation can be. Your voice and your involvement matters! Let’s create a meaningful, lasting impact for your children, family, and community. This Parent Guide is designed especially for you. You’ll find helpful information about our program structure, services, policies, curriculum, parent engagement opportunities, and more. Please keep it handy throughout the year and use it as a resource.
Most importantly, know that our dedicated staff is here for you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. We are here to serve you and your family’s needs and are honored to be a partner in your child’s Head Start journey. We look forward to a wonderful year of learning, growing, and thriving together.
Sincerely,
Socorro Rodriguez, ESC19 Head Start Director
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VISION STATEMENT Our program transforms and impacts the future success of children, families, and staff by empowering them to reach their full potential. MISSION STATEMENT Our premiere early childhood education program enriches the lives of children, families, and staff by providing high-quality comprehensive services that promote wellness and advance school readiness. • Every child and family is our priority; • Trusting relationships are essential to our success; • We impact the quality of lives of those we serve; • Accountability includes exceeding local, state, federal and program standards; • In effective communications and collaboration; • Our unique systems approach sustains and drives positive outcomes; CORE BELIEFS
• In evidence-based decision making; • Our quality journey produces systemic organizational excellence and innovation.
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ESC19 Head Start Center Locations Anthony Anthony ISD 610 6th St. Anthony, TX 79821 (915) 791-4929 Barcelona* El Paso ISD 328 Barcelona Dr. Dell City* Dell City ISD 110 S. Main St. Dell City, TX 79837 Phone: (915) 964-2663/
* Centers that also provide Early Head Start Services
John E. Uxer I EHS* El Paso ISD 9776 Kenworthy St., Bldg B El Paso, Texas 79924 (915) 790-4715 John E. Uxer II El Paso ISD 9776 Kenworthy St., Bldg C El Paso, Texas 79924 (915) 790-4702 John E. Uxer III* El Paso ISD 9776 Kenworthy St., Bldg D El Paso, Texas 79924 (915) 791-4920 Lyndon B. Johnson* El Paso ISD 308 De Vargas Dr. El Paso, Texas 79905 (915) 791-4845 Montana Vista* Clint ISD 3550 Mark Jason Dr. El Paso, Texas 79938
Parkdale* El Paso ISD 6105 Delta Dr. El Paso, Texas 79905
Sierra Blanca Sierra Blanca ISD 504 Cammack Ave. Sierra Blanca, Texas 79851 (915) 369-2910 Socorro* Socorro ISD 693 N. Rio Vista Rd. Socorro, Texas 79927
(915) 791-4848 Pete Duarte* Clint ISD
(915) 808-4581 Fort Hancock Fort Hancock ISD 408 Turley Ave. Fort Hancock, Texas 79839 (915) 791-4832 Horizon* (opening soon) Clint ISD 14240 N. Horizon Blvd. Horizon City, TX 79928 (915) 790-4600 Houston* El Paso ISD 2851 Grant Ave. El Paso, Texas 79930 (915) 791-4940 Isaac Camacho* El Paso ISD 4102 Ellerthorpe Ave. El Paso, Texas 79904 (915) 791-4833 James R. Vasquez* Ysleta ISD 1355 James Kelly Dr. El Paso, Texas 79936 (915) 790-4789 John E. Uxer I El Paso ISD 9776 Kenworthy St., Bldg A El Paso, Texas 79924 (915) 790-4729
500 S. Darrington Rd. Horizon, Texas 79928 (915) 791-4854 Red Sands Clint ISD 4250 O'Shea Rd. El Paso, Texas 79938 (915) 790-4747
El Paso, Texas 79905 Phone: (915) 791-4801 Branon El Paso ISD 5123 Branon St. El Paso, Texas 79924 Phone: (915) 791-4931 Cesar Chavez* Ysleta ISD 211 Prado Rd.
(915) 791-4871 Southside*
El Paso ISD 609 Tays St. El Paso, Texas 79901 (915) 791-4877 Sparks* Socorro ISD 12811 Sparks Rd. El Paso, Texas 79928 (915) 790-4763 Tornillo* Tornillo ISD 19200 Gaby Rd. Tornillo, Texas 79853 (915) 791-4881 Westside* El Paso ISD 201 E. Sunset Rd. El Paso, Texas 79922 (915) 791-4885 Ysleta* Ysleta ISD 175 Midway Dr. El Paso, Texas 79915 (915) 791-4894
Remcon* El Paso ISD
837 Huckleberry St. El Paso, TX 79903
El Paso, Texas 79907 Phone: (915) 791-4816 Child Development Center* Socorro ISD 11670 Chito Samaniego Dr. El Paso, Texas 79936 Phone: (915) 790-4782 Clint* Clint ISD 13100 Alameda Ave., Bldg E Clint, Texas 79836 Phone: (915) 791-4822 David Sublasky* Fabens ISD 810 NE. Camp St. Fabens, Texas 79838 Phone: (915) 791-4827
(915) 791-4864 San Elizario* San Elizario ISD 13705 Socorro Rd. San Elizario, Texas 79849 (915) 791-4866 Santiago Rodriguez* Canutillo ISD 6701 South Desert Blvd. - Bldg H Canutillo, Texas 79932 (915) 791-4806 Saul Kleinfeld* Socorro ISD
(915) 790-4749 North Loop* Ysleta ISD
9366 North Loop Dr. El Paso, Texas 79907 (915) 791-4893 Options* Socorro ISD 12380 Pine Springs Dr. El Paso, Texas 79928 (915) 790-4799
2857 Saul Kleinfeld Dr. El Paso, Texas 79936 (915) 791-4901
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ESC19 HEAD START - Administrative Offices (Multi Purpose Center) 11670 CHITO SAMANIEGO DR., EL PASO, TX 79936 (915) 790 - 4600 / WWW.ESC19HS.NET
VISITORS All visitors/parents entering our Head Start Centers must go directly to the front office. Center Staff will help you with the sign in process. To ensure the safety of children, the Head Start Program requires all staff, volunteers, and contractors to have a Criminal Background History clearance to be on site. PEST MANAGEMENT PROGRAM As part of our commitment to provide your child with a safe, pest-free learning environment, ESC19 Head Start may periodically apply pesticides to help manage insects, weeds or pathogens. Pesticide applications are part of our integrated pest management program, which relies largely on non-chemical forms of pest control. Pesticide application on Head Start property are made only by trained and licensed technicians. PERSONAL ITEMS Due to child’s safety, children must always wear closed-toe shoes, and no sandals are permitted. Children should not bring toys, money, jewelry, or valuable items to the Head Start Centers. The Head Start Program will not be responsible for any lost, misplaced, broken or stolen items. INSECT REPELLENT AND SUNSCREEN No insect repellent or sunscreen will be applied to children at any time. WEATHER All Head Start Centers have a plan in place to assure children are protected during hot and cold weather; the “Weather Guidelines Chart for Children” is followed and posted in the classrooms.
The ESC19 Head Start Program is committed to providing quality services to the children and families. Head Start program policies and procedures are available for parents upon request. If you have any questions regarding our services, please feel free to call your respective center. HOURS OF OPERATION FOR HEAD START CENTERS Head Start Centers are open Monday-Friday, from 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Children who attend the AM./P.M. or Full Day session must follow their designated time at their Head Start Center. In order for children to benefit from a day of instruction, children must arrive and be picked up on time. Parents will have a grace period of 10 minutes after arrival and departure. For your child’s safety, a parent must take the child to the designated area and assure to sign in and out upon arrival and departure using the Children’s Sign In and Out Log in classroom. Please notify the Center Clerk or Family Service Worker (FSW), if there is a change in address, emergency contacts or relevant information to the child’s or family’s wellbeing. Children are released only to authorized individuals that are listed on the Emergency Card. Authorized individuals must be at least 16 years of age, and have a valid Photo ID. All Head Start Staff are required to verify the identity of a person to whom they release a child. HEAD START CENTER OPEN DOOR POLICY Managers have an Open-Door Policy. We encourage you to take the opportunity to talk to and/or resolve any concerns or suggestions. Any changes to Program Policies and Procedures will be communicated through center newsletters, parent notices, parent meetings, or individual parent conferences. *Policies and procedures are available upon parent’s request.
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SUSPENSION/EXPULSION The Head Start Program is an all-inclusion program that serves all children. Following Performance Standards, we do not suspend, expel, or remove a child from the program. NO ANIMALS / PETS Animals/pets (except for service animals) and live plants are Head Start parents or legal guardians are highly encouraged to visit their child’s school at any time during center’s hours of operation. If a parent would like to continuously visit their child’s classroom, they must then follow a policy and procedure for visitors and volunteers. FIELD TRIPS Field trips will take place throughout the school year. A notice of the field trip will be posted at your Head Start Center, and a flyer/permission slip will be sent home. All children participating in a field trip must have a permission slip signed by a parent or legal guardian. Volunteers attending field trips must adhere to Volunteer Policies and Procedures which includes: no video, no photo, and no cell phone use during the field trip. WATER ACTIVITIES Water activities will take place only at the end of the school year as a part of the end-of-the-year celebration activities. Water activities will consist of splashing and sprinkler play. Notices will be sent to parents requesting appropriate clothing and additional items necessary for these activities. If you request for your child not to participate in the water activities, other activities will be provided to ensure your child participates in the end-of-year activities. not allowed in the classrooms. PARENT PARTICIPATION
REGULATORY AGENCIES • A copy of Texas Health and Human Services Minimum Standard Rules for Child Care Centers is available for review upon parent’s request. • A copy of the current Texas Health & Human Services report is posted for review on the Administration Bulletin Board at each Head Start Center. • A certified pest control company may be used occasionally to provide pest control services in accordance with Texas Pest Control procedures. • A copy of the Certificate of Liability of Insurance is posted on the Administration Bulletin Board. • Additional Regulatory Agencies reports are posted on the Administration Bulletin Board. • Head Start program policies and procedures are available for parents upon request. As a parent/legal guardian, you have the right to contact or visit the website of the Texas Health and Human Services Child Care Regulations at (915) 834-5739 or visit their website at: www.hhs.texas.gov
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The Head Start program aligns with The Texas School Safety Center Protocols. Our program is designed to ensure the safety of children parent and staff. These protocols ensure a safe learning environment. THE FOLLOWING ARE SAFETY PROTOCOLS WE HAVE IN PLACE: STANDARD RESPONSE PROTOCOL (SRP) & EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS DRILLS All children, staff and volunteers will participate in the Head Start Program Standard Response Protocol Plan. Emergency Drills consist of the following: Lockdown, Secure, Shelter in Place, Fire Drills, Evacuation and Relocation. The Emergency Plans are posted on the Administrative Bulletin Board located in the front office and SRP posters are located at every exit of the center. The Emergency Operation Preparedness Plan Binder is located in the front office and available upon parent’s request. HEAD START CENTERS ARE GANG-FREE ZONES Under Texas Penal Code, any area within 1000 feet of the center, is considered a gang-free zone and criminal offenses related to organized criminal activity are subject to penalties. VIDEO SURVEILLANCE AND RECORDING Head Start Program facilities and grounds including school buses are equipped with video surveillance systems. These systems are monitored and can be viewed only by administrative personnel following program policies and/or by parent request. Parents please be aware of the location where you drop off/ pick up your child. Please exercise caution when entering Head Start Center / school parking lot and remember to follow posted speed limits and give right of way to pedestrians.
Head Start centers are Drugs, Tobacco and Firearms Free Zones Texas Penal Code Section §48.01 prohibits smoking or carrying a burning tobacco product in certain public area, including schools, playgrounds, libraries, elevators, and enclosed public spaces. Texas Education Code§ 37.122 Possession of Intoxicants on Public School Ground - A person commits an offense if they possess an intoxicating beverage for consumption, sale, or distribution while on the grounds or in a building of a public school. Texas Health and Safety code 481.134 Drug Free Zone - Under Texas Health and Safety Code 481.134 schools are designated Drug- Free Zones. Drug- related offenses committed near or on school property carry enhanced legal penalties, and we strictly enforce a zero-tolerance policy to keep our campuses safe. Texas Penal Code §46.03 Places Weapons are Prohibited - As Stated in Texas Penal Code §46.03, firearms- including handguns are not allowed on school property, at school events, or on school bus, even if an individual holds a license to carry.
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1. To be welcomed into my child’s classroom. 2. To be informed regularly about my child’s progress. 3. To be informed of the Head Start Policies and Procedures, Local, State and Federal Regulations, and Code of Ethics that apply to parent conduct. 4. To always be treated with respect and dignity. 5. To be informed of my child’s Head Start Center program activities through monthly parent meetings, notices, and newsletters. 6. To work collaboratively with my child’s teachers and staff to help his/her developmental growth. 7. To learn about the operation of the Head Start Program, including the level of education and experience required to fill various staff positions for possible employment within the Head Start Program. 8. To be informed about all community resources regarding health, education and financial awareness for the well-being of my family. 9. To address/resolve any issue or concern that I may have at center level with the Center Manager and following the chain of command. 10. Take part in key policy decisions related to program planning and operations through my Policy Council Representative. 11. To be provided a space with an adult chair to breastfeed or provide breast milk for my child while he/she attends school. 12. To take part in the classroom as an observer, volunteer or paid employee, and to contribute my services in whichever way I can toward the enrichment of my child’s education.
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1. To become knowledgeable about the Head Start Program. 2. To be my child’s first teacher. 3. To be an advocate for my child. 4. To be informed and actively participate in my center’s program activities. 5. To read the monthly Head Start Center newsletter, notices, flyers, and attend monthly parent meetings. 6. To take an active part in leadership roles by participating in elections, explain the Head Start Program to other parents and encourage their full participation. 7. To welcome teachers and staff into my home during home visits to discuss my child’s progress, and the importance of the Home School Connection. 8. To work with my child’s teacher, staff and other parents in a professional and cooperative way. 9. To engage in decision-making, and support the Head Start Program’s Vision, Mission, and Core Beliefs. 10. To participate in parent surveys. 11. To take advantage of the Head Start Program’s design by increasing my knowledge and skills about child development for possible employment. 12. To become involved in the opportunities offered by the Head Start Program and community programs which help to improve my family’s wellness. 13. To maintain open communication with staff and update any information as needed in regards to my child’s emotional well-being. 14. To follow State and Federal Regulations, and Head Start Policies and Procedures. 15. To send an extra set of clothes for my child in case of any accidents (to include undergarments and socks).
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PRESCHOOL SERVICE AREA SUPPORTS PRESCHOOLERS’ DEVELOPMENT AND LEARNING BY: OFFERING A SAFE AND NURTURING LEARNING ENVIRONMENT FOR PRESCHOOL STUDENTS: • Sensitive and responsive interactions between teacher and students to support all children’s needs. • Consistent and predictable routines that help children to know what to expect and enhance their feeling of security. FOCUSING ON ACADEMIC SUCCESS BY IMPLEMENTING PRESCHOOL CURRICULUM WITH FIDELITY: • Addressing the cognitive, social, and emotional development areas in my child’s development. • Providing learning experiences that support and extend children’s learning at various levels of development. • Responding to specific children’s needs and properly addressing them. PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT IS ESSENTIAL FOR YOUNG CHILDREN AS IT PROMOTES LARGE MUSCLE DEVELOPMENT, SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT, AND ENCOURAGES THEIR NATURAL CURIOSITY ABOUT THE WORLD AROUND THEM: • Children engage in a minimum of 90 minutes of moderate to vigorous active play every day. • Children engage in learning experiences that encourage them to integrate physical movement (e.g. dance, wiggle, jump, ballet, running, jumping, climbing, pedaling, turning, twisting, balancing, dodging, throwing, catching, kicking, striking, and float) daily.
• It is important to dress children appropriately for the weather to ensure their comfort and safety. • When the weather does not permit outdoor play, indoor activities such as music and movement will be planned in the classroom/ cafeteria to provide children with opportunities for physical development. IMPLEMENTING DEVELOPMENTAL SCREENERS AND ONGOING ASSESSMENTS: • Administering developmental screenings within the first 45 days of the child’s enrollment to determine additional support. • Implementing an ongoing assessment cycle that helps teachers to make decisions about children’s developmental progress and learning needs. • Engaging parents in the ongoing assessment process considering their valuable information and perspectives.
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SUPPORTING PRESCHOOLERS AND THEIR FAMILIES THROUGH TRANSITIONS: • To provide stability and consistency between settings enhancing school readiness and supporting better adjustment. • From birth to Preschool.
INDIVIDUALIZED SUPPORT: We recognize that each child is unique and may require different approaches to discipline and guidance. We provide individualized support and accommodations for children with special needs or challenging behaviors. SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT: We incorporate social-emotional learning activities and promote the development of self-regulation skills, empathy, and problem-solving abilities. COLLABORATIVE APPROACH: We encourage collaboration between teachers, families, and support staff in addressing behavioral challenges and providing consistent guidance across home and school settings.
• From Preschool to Kindergarten. DISCIPLINE AND GUIDANCE:
ESC19 Head Start’s Discipline and Guidance Policy prohibits any physical punishment, psychological abuse, or coercion when disciplining a child. Our discipline and guidance policy for young children is centered on creating a nurturing and safe learning environment. Our approach includes the following aspects: POSITIVE BEHAVIOR SUPPORT: We emphasize positive reinforcement for acceptable behavior by praising and acknowledging good behavior. This encourages self-esteem, self-control, and self-direction. Our focus is on using praise and encouragement for good behavior, rather than only concentrating on unacceptable behavior. Our staff redirects behavior using positive statements. CLEAR EXPECTATIONS: We communicate age appropriate expectations for behavior and academic engagement to both children and their families. We remind children of behavior expectations daily by using clear, positive statements. CONSISTENT RULES AND EXPECTATIONS: We establish consistent rules and expectations for behavior, ensuring that they are developmentally appropriate and fair. PROACTIVE STRATEGIES: We implement strategies to prevent challenging behavior, such as providing engaging activities, setting up structured daily routines, and using visual cues and reminders.
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INFANT/ TODDLER SERVICES Our program serves infants, toddlers (0-36 mos.) and their families to include pregnant women. The program provides high-quality early education and child development services. The Early Head Start Program promotes the importance of continuous parental contribution as lifelong educators in their child’s development by conducting Initial Home Visits to build the home-school collaboration. Our program promotes secure parent-child relationships and takes pride in providing high quality early learning experiences. INFANT/ TODDLER EDUCATION & DEVELOPMENT TEACHING AND THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT • We implement a research-based curriculum along with screening and assessment procedures that support individualization and growth in the areas of development and incorporate families in their children’s learning. • Children receive 1,380 instructional hours during the school year. • We provide children with developmentally, culturally, and linguistically, appropriate learning experiences in language, literacy, mathematics, social emotional functions, approaches to learning, science, physical skills, and creative arts. • We provide high quality oral health, mental health, and nutrition services that are developmentally, culturally, and linguistically appropriate. • We are a bilingual program that uses research that supports dual language learners using teaching practices that assist infants and toddlers in developing their home language and providing experiences that expose them to English and Spanish. • We provide learning environments that are well-organized.
• We provide appropriate schedules, individualized learning plans, and indoor/outdoor experiences that allow children opportunities for play and exploration. • We integrate appropriate daily routines and a flexible schedule throughout the day, allowing new learning milestones to occur during individual and small group activities. INFANT TODDLER SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES The Early Head Start Program follows safe sleep recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) for infants to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID). • Infants are placed on firm mattress, with tight fitted sheets, in crib that meets the CPSC federal requirements. • All infants are placed on their back to sleep unless an Infant Sleep Exception/Health Care Professional Recommendation Form is signed by the infant’s care provider. • Blankets, quilts, comforters, pillows, stuffed toys/animals, soft objects, bumpers pads, or lines/sleeping devices are not used in cribs. • Children can’t have their heads, faces, or cribs covered at any time. • Cribs and rest mats are labeled with each child’s name. • Cribs and rest mats are spaced 3 feet apart or separated by a solid barrier to avoid spreading contagious illnesses. • Cribs sheets and rest mats covers are replaced immediately after an illness or if soiled. • Crib mattresses and rest mats are clean and disinfected weekly and as needed.
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PREGNANT WOMEN SERVICES • We provide services to enrolled pregnant women, to include the father, partner, or other relevant family members on prenatal and postpartum information, education and services that addresses fetal development, the importance of nutrition, the risk of alcohol, drugs, smoking and labor and delivery. • We educate enrolled pregnant women on postpartum recovery, parental depression, infant care, safe sleep practices and the benefits of breastfeeding. This information is provided during the Initial Home Visit conducted by the Infant/Toddler Teacher and other service areas staff. • We engage enrolled pregnant women and/or other relevant family members to participate in planning for the transition of the newborn into the Early Head Start Program. • We conduct a newborn visit within two weeks after • We implement strategies and practices to support successful transitions for children and their families transitioning out of Early Head Start and into preschool. • We ensure proper placement through a Transitioning Plan initiated six months prior to child’s third birthday. • We take into consideration the child’s health and ability status, and progress the child and family made while in Early Head Start. • We consider the possibility of different family circumstances, along with availability of the Head Start Center, public pre-kindergarten, and other early education and child development services in the community that meet the needs of the family. the infant’s birth. TRANSITIONS
• We are NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) accredited. The NAEYC accreditation system sets the standard of excellence for families, the early childhood education profession, as well as for the public, and offers support for programs to meet their standards. If you have any questions and/or are interested in these services, please contact the Center Manager at your Head Start Center. SEE PAGE 4, FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF ESC19 HEAD START PRESCHOOL & EARLY HEAD START PROGRAM LOCATIONS.
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TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BEGINS WITH YOU - THE CHILD’S PARENTS The safe transportation of your child to and from school is the concern of everyone. Whether your child is driven to school, takes the bus or is walked by you, his/her safety, as well as yours and those in the community, is most important to our Head Start Program Transportation Services. Please take a few minutes to review these basic tips to get your child to and from school safely: DRIVING TO SCHOOL • Be sure to sit your child in the back seat whether your car is equipped with air bags or not. • Make sure that your child is in an approved car safety seat that is age, height and weight appropriate. • Talk to your child about obeying the traffic signals and signs. Discuss their color, shapes, and meanings. • Be sure to obey railroad crossing rules and observe the school bus loading and unloading lights, as well as school zone speed limits and parking lot rules. WALKING TO SCHOOL • Be sure to cross only at marked crosswalks and intersections. • Remind your child about the danger of crossing the street in between parked cars or other vehicles. • Teach your child to look both ways before crossing the street. • Teach your child the importance of obeying traffic signals, especially the walk and don’t walk signs. • Talk to your child about “Stranger Danger’’ and show your child the “Safe Places” along the walking route.
WHEN RIDING THE BUS TO SCHOOL • All parents/legal guardians should have their child at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. The scheduled arrival time is printed on the bus schedule given to you at the time of Parent Orientation or child’s first day of school. • Teach your child to line up at least 3 giant steps away from the curb when waiting for the bus. • Teach your child to wait until the bus comes to a complete stop and doors open before trying to board the bus. • Teach your child that pushing, shoving, and playing around Is dangerous when waiting for the bus. • Remind your child that if he/she ever drops anything outside / inside of the bus to ask the bus driver to pick it up for him / her. • Make sure that you walk your child to the bus door. • Remind your child to always obey the rules of the bus driver.
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ADDITIONAL TRANSPORTATION REMINDERS • Transportation is provided for Early Head Start Centers with a focus on transporting Teen Moms and their babies. • Teen Moms are highly encouraged to ride and understand that routes can be adjusted for school drop-off or pick-up. Daily Absences must be called in to Transportation at (915)790-4679 by 7:00 a.m. REMINDERS FOR PARENTS REGARDING TRANSPORTATION • Certain types of clothing can create a hazard as your child gets on or off the bus. A long dangling jacket or sweatshirt strings, scarves or other loose clothing can get caught as your child enters or leaves the bus. Only backpacks distributed by the program are allowed. • Please meet your child at the bus. No child will be released to a person in a waiting car. • Volunteers must wear low-heeled and closed toe shoes when riding on the bus. • Always have your identification card and inform your designated person who will also be picking up your child (16 or older) to have their identification card with them. Remember, the bus monitor or any Head Start Staff may ask for identification at any time and from anyone picking up your child. No photocopies of identification is allowed, only originals. For the protection of your child, it is recommended that your child only be picked up and released at their assigned bus stop. If your child is not picked up on time at their bus stop, he/she will be returned to their respective Head Start Center. TO AVOID THE RETURN OF YOUR CHILD TO THE HEAD START CENTER Be at the designated bus stop at least five minutes before pick-up or drop-off. The approximate drop off time is printed on the schedule provided to you at parent orientation. You may also get a schedule from the center or the bus monitor. Be sure you are given the most recent bus schedule, as routes and schedules may change.
If the person picking up your child is not on the Emergency Card, you must contact the Head Start Center in person prior to dismissal and update the changes. Ensure the designated person is at least 16 years old and has a verifiable picture identification. Please review and up-date the Enrollment Form and Emergency Card as needed. IF YOUR CHILD IS RETURNED TO THE HEAD START CENTER The parent or the designated person (16 years or older with verifiable identification) can pick up the child/children from their respective Head Start Center. Steps will be taken to notify the authorities if any child is not picked up by 5:30 p.m. These steps will be taken if we cannot reach the parents or person designated to pick up the child. As an added safety precaution, please be advised that an adult must accompany all Head Start children from the bus. We will not release a child to a person under 16 years of age even if the parent is visibly sitting in a car. TRANSPORTATION SERVICES The Transportation Service Area provides professionally trained and licensed bus drivers and bus monitors. They are trained and certified to perform CPR if needed and they also receive on-going training on safety issues. Should you have any questions about the transportation offered to your child feel free to contact your Head Start Center Manager. SEE PAGE 4, FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF ESC19 HEAD START PRESCHOOL & EARLY HEAD START PROGRAM LOCATIONS.
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OUR HEAD START PROGRAM OFFERS: • Screenings in all developmental areas to identify possible concerns. • Initiate referral for further evaluation to the local education agency (LEA) responsible for implementing Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. • A learning environment for all students including students with special needs. • Ensure that each student’s individualized needs are met by modifying lessons and using evidence-based strategies. • Each student has access to all activities and services within the least restrictive environment. • Speech therapy if child qualifies for services from local education agency responsible for implementing Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). THE DISABILITIES SERVICE AREA ENSURES CHILDREN, FAMILIES, AND STAFF ARE SUPPORTED WITH: • On-going professional development • Coaching • Classroom observations • On-going communication is in order to ensure the implementation of Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSP), and Individualized Education Program (IEP) If you suspect your child might have a developmental delay, please contact your child’s teacher or Family Service Worker (FSW). Information on the referral process will be provided. Head Start is ready to support your child’s academic needs and help you to guide your child to success.
OUR HEAD START PROGRAM OFFERS: SOCIAL - EMOTIONAL CURRICULUM AND RESOURCES THAT TEACH: • Self- regulation • Identify and manage feelings • Build relationships and friendships • Social Skills • Safety TEACH AND MODEL EXPECTATIONS:
• We are Safe. • We are Kind.
• We are Responsible. • We are Respectful. INCORPORATE SOCIAL EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT • Establish classroom routines • Active supervision • Use proximity control • Task assessment • Positive redirection • Visual aids AS A SERVICE AREA WE: • Initiate referrals for social emotional or behavioral concerns. • Develop a social emotional plan with center staff, parents, and family, to address concerns. • Establish a plan for communication, goals and consistency for home and family collaboration. • Collaborate with mental health consultants and community agencies for referrals, consultations, and counseling services.
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If you suspect your child might have a developmental delay, please contact your child’s teacher or family services worker (FSW) to initiate referral process. THE DISABILITES/ MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE AREA ENSURES CHILDREN, FAMILIES, AND STAFF ARE SUPPORTED WITH: • Professional development. • Coaching/ Modeling. • Classroom observations. • Ongoing communication with local education agencies, mental health consultants, and community agencies on status of referral and implementation of services. • Monitor progress of goals based on Individual Education Plan, Individualized Family Service Plan and Social Emotional Plan.
The Health Service Area ensures children are healthy and educated on how to stay healthy, while being a vital resource to our children and families. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS FOR HEAD START CHILDREN • Up-to-date physical providing clearance for child to attend Head Start Center (including anemia and lead results) and Dental exam. • Infants, toddlers and preschool children must have up-to- date immunizations at all times. • Parent notices will be sent out to notify you of upcoming immunizations, physicals and dental exams needed. • Age-appropriate health screenings will be conducted by center staff including lead and anemia testing unless parent/ guardian notes otherwise. HEALTH SCREENINGS AND EXAMS: Children will have established medical and dental homes to ensure health assessments are conducted. If physical or dental forms provided by parent/guardian state child has been referred for treatment, a follow up will be conducted. MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION POLICY: According to federal, state, and local laws and regulations, we must have: A current ESC19 Head Start Medication Administration Permit (doctor licensed in Texas) with complete instructions including: time, duration and frequency on medication administration. No medication from Mexico will be accepted. Medication must be properly prescribed and labeled. Over-the-counter medication must be prescribed by an M.D. (licensed in Texas) and labeled by a pharmacist. Proper training is required before any staff member can administer any medication at the center. For prescribed EPI-Pen we will follow Medication Administration Training Policy which includes how to administer, storage, disposal, reporting, and parental notification. A non-medication form must be completed by a Texas physician and include time, duration and frequency.
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MEDICAL HOME A CHIP/Medicaid application can be downloaded at: https://www.insurekidsnow.gov/coverage LICENSING COMPLIANCE ESC19 Head Start will strictly adhere to policies in order to: •Protect the children and staff. •Safeguard against transmission of contagious life- threatening diseases. •Comply with Daycare Licensing Regulations as a facility not accredited for sick care. We are here to support your families wellness needs. Please feel free to contact us for any support you may need regarding your families health.
THE CENTER MANAGER MAY EXCLUDE A CHILD FROM SCHOOL • If the child has a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, two or more incidents of diarrhea and/ or vomiting, shows signs and symptoms of a communicable disease. (Please refer to communicable disease chart) https://www.dshs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/IDCU/health/ schools_childcare/Communicable-Disease-Chart-03042024. pdf • If the child poses a significant health and safety risk to self or to other children and staff. HEAD START STAFF HEALTH REQUIREMENTS, AND COMMUNICABLE DISEASE SCREENINGS All Head Start Staff are certified in CPR and First Aid. Staff members are updated continuously on health concerns and/ or health alerts provided by the Department of Public Health. In order to comply with Texas Department of Human and Health Services Minimum Standards and Head Start Performance Standards, ESC19 Head Start requires each staff member have an initial health examination and a periodic re-examination as recommended by their health care provider in accordance with state, tribal, or local requirements, that include screeners or tests for communicable diseases, as appropriate. The Head Start Program also requires each staff member and volunteer to complete a TB screening questionnaire to identify possible risks of exposure to tuberculosis. If any risks are determined based on the questionnaire, an individual may be required to obtain a TB screening or a Chest X-ray to assure staff member is free from communicable disease. If your child has a medical emergency while in our care, trained center staff will administer First Aid or lifesaving care as necessary. If deemed necessary, emergency personnel (911) will be called, parent will be notified, and a staff member will accompany child to the emergency facility.
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FAMILY PARTNERSHIP AND LEADERSHIP The Family Partnership and Leadership (FPL) Service Area serves all Head Start families by providing leadership opportunities that motivate, inspire, promote, engage and educate families’ direction while empowering parents to take an active role in the educational development and growth of their children and in their own personal development. LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Parent Committees You have the opportunity to actively participate in any of the committees at your Head Start Center such as the Executive Committee, Fundraising Committee, By-Laws Committee, and others. These committees help you to be better informed of the needs that your respective center might have, and will give you a broad range of opportunities to participate in the shared decision-making process, such as Policy Council. Parents, legal guardians or any family member that resides in the same household as the child currently enrolled in the Head Start Program have the opportunity to reach their educational goals through the following free trainings: General Educational Development (GED), English as a Second Language (ESL), Commercial Driver License (CDL) hands on training for school buses, Family Wellness, and Financial Education. Parent Meetings SELF-IMPROVEMENT Adult Education Trainings The meetings are scheduled once a month at your Head Start Center. Attending these meetings, you will be informed first hand about your center and program updates, educational Parents, legal guardians or any family member can take advantage of these trainings that promote the school readiness of your children, increase your advocacy skills and knowledge. These sessions discuss “Dichos” and how you use them to create a better life for your children. It is a fun and interactive way to increase your family’s wellbeing. awareness and upcoming activities. Opening Doors (Abriendo Puertas)
Fatherhood Fathers / Male Role Models are provided with trainings designed to inspire men to become actively engaged in the learning development of their children and how to improve family wellness. Instructional Volunteers Instructional Volunteers are welcome! Parents or legal guardians are provided with volunteer opportunities that will engage them in the classroom as Instructional Volunteers, at home, and in the Family Engagement Sports Program. Volunteers must adhere to volunteer requirements prior to assisting in the classroom or center, i.e. have a cleared background check, and complete a volunteer training. PLEASE NOTE Parents and legal guardians who visit a child’s classroom continuously on a daily basis are required by policy to attend the Instructional Volunteer Training and complete a Criminal Background Check. No cellphones usage is allowed in the classrooms, to include photography or video recording. Parents or legal guardians interested in participating in any of these activities, please contact your Head Start Center. SEE PAGE 4, FOR COMPLETE LIST OF ESC19 HEAD START CENTER LOCATIONS.
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ATTENDANCE • To ensure that children and families receive optimal benefits from the Head Start Program it is crucial to maintain regular attendance and punctuality. • Head Start Staff will emphasize the benefits of attending school regularly by keeping record of the child’s attendance daily. Our goal is to build a relationship and support you in setting a solid foundation to promote the well-being and healthy development for yourself and your family.
REGISTRATION AND ENROLLMENT The ESC19 Head Start program registers children throughout the year at our 34 Head Start Center locations and Administration offices. The Head Start program has eligibility requirements that serve to qualify families such as Age, Residency and Income. Families that are interested in registering are contacted to schedule an appointment for an in-person interview in which they are asked to bring eligibility documents such as proof of income, proof of age (birth certificate or other documents allowed) and proof of address that shows that the family resides in either the El Paso or Hudspeth Counties. In addition, during the registration process the parent/legal guardian are asked to sign and Emergency Contact Form that requires minimum of 3 contacts. During the process additional documentation such as the Parent Acknowledgment, Consent to Exchange Confidential Information, Parent Consent Agreement Form and Photo Video Release must be sign by parent/guardian. Additional document will be given to parent/ legal guardian to be taken to their medical provider that states child is “Free and Clear” to participate in the Head Start Program. After completion of registration, the application will be reviewed, signed and placed on the waitlist by the Head Start Center Manager. After approval is granted, families are selected based on the Selection Criteria that is in place, and are then notified of their child’s first day of school. RECRUITMENT • In order to reach those most in need of services, ESC19 Head Start Program must develop and implement a recruitment process designed to actively inform all families with eligible children about the benefits the program possesses. • A recruitment plan uses multiple ways to engage families, connect with the community, and build strong relationships with potential partners. • ESC19 Head Start develops a Center Recruitment Committee in which parents are encourage to be part of to assist in informing friends and families about the program benefits.
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FAMILY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES The Family Development Service Area offers an array of social services designed to be responsive to the individualized need of each Head Start child and their family. The Family Service Worker (FSW) will meet and visit with you throughout the school year to offer you the opportunity to participate in a family partnership assessment in order to develop and implement individualized goals for your child and family. The FSW will assist you in obtaining services available through our Head Start Program or will link you to community resources in the following areas: • Basic Needs • Education • Employment • Health • Social Services • Family Crisis • And other services as determined to be necessary by the family’s needs assessment. NUTRITION SERVICES Focuses on modeling - Education, Exercise and Eating Right. EDUCATION Nutrition Services strives to educate our children and their families in making healthy choices by providing resources throughout the school year. EXERCISE Our program integrates exercise into curricular activities like our Head Start and Early Head Start “Get Moving-Start Growing!” Curriculum, with physical activity being one of the four components.
EATING RIGHT As per Head Start Program Performance Standards, we will assure every child is provided with at least one-third to two-thirds of the child’s daily nutritional needs depending on the length of the program day (half-day session/full-day session). Our program complies with Head Start, Child & Adult Care Food Program, Texas Department of Agriculture and United States Department of Agriculture regulations. Accommodations are made for children with special dietary needs such as children with disabilities, food allergies and religious restrictions. PLEASE NOTE: In order to maintain compliance with federal regulations, you must provide a signed medical statement from a United States physician and/or letter from your Pastor, Rabbi, Islamic Center, etc. before modifications/substitutions can be made. Food allergies must also include an “Allergy Action Plan” signed by a United States physician.
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PROCEDURES FOR REPORTING SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE/ NEGLECT CASES As a childcare facility licensed by the state of Texas, your Head Start center is required to abide by the Minimum Standard Rules from the Texas Health and Human Services. All Head Start staff is trained on a yearly basis in Procedures for Reporting Suspected Child Abuse / Neglect. A copy of the most recent Child Care Regulation Report is available for your review and is posted on the Administrative Bulletin Board in the center’s office. Questions and/or concerns regarding the program’s adherence to licensing guidelines may be directed to the Texas Health and Human Services at (915) 834-5739 or www.hhs.texas.gov Concerns regarding the suspicion of child abuse and/or neglect should be reported by calling the Child Abuse Hotline at 1 (800) 252-5400. All staff members and volunteers receive mandatory annual training on Reporting Suspected Child Abuse/Neglect. Parents and families are provided with Reporting Suspected Child Abuse/Neglect presentations during the school year to raise awareness, prevention and provide the steps on how to report it. CHILD ABUSE/ NEGLECT AT HEAD START CENTER OR AT HOME Anyone suspecting abuse or neglect of a Head Start child at Head Start Center or at Home Personnel must immediately report to 1-800-252-5400 or www.dfps.state.tx.us. The person may remain anonymous when reporting. Thereafter, the person will sign and document all information in the Suspected Child Abuse/Neglect Report Form and submit it to the Center Manager. Within the next 24 hours, the Center Manager will contact the local Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (TDFPS) Child Care Regulation office and the Administrative Operations Services Area to report the date, name of the child, and suspected abuse or neglect that was reported.
The Operations Program Manager will follow up with local Texas Department of Family and Protective Services on the status of the case. REPORTING SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE /NEGLECT Anyone suspecting child abuse/ neglect must report to 1-800- 252-5400 www.dfps.state.tx.us Any person reporting must sign and document all information in the Suspected Child Abuse/Neglect Report and submit it to the Center Manager. IF INCIDENT OCCURS AT HEAD START CENTER OR AT HOME Center Manager notifies local Child Care Regulation office and Operations Program Manager within 24 hours. POSSIBLE BEHAVIORS THAT MAY SIGNAL THE PRESENCE OF CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT CHILDREN’S BEHAVIOR • Shows sudden changes in behavior or school performance. • Has not received help for physical or medical problems brought to the parents’ attention. • Has learning problems (or difficulty concentrating) that cannot be attributed to specific physical or psychological causes. • Is always watchful, as though preparing for something bad to happen. • Lacks adult supervision. • Is overly compliant, passive, or withdrawn. • Comes to school or other activities early, stays late, and does not want to go home. • Is reluctant to be around a particular person. • Disclosure of maltreatment.
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PARENT’S BEHAVIOR • Denies the existence of or blames the children for problems in school or home. • Asks teachers or other caregivers to use harsh physical discipline if the child misbehaves. • Sees the child as entirely bad, worthless, or burdensome. • Demands a level of physical or academic performance the child cannot achieve. • Looks primarily to the child for care, attention, and satisfaction of the parent’s emotional needs. • Shows little concern for the child. PARENT AND CHILD’S BEHAVIORS • Rarely touch or look at each other. • Consider their relationships entirely negative. • State that they do not like each other. The above list may not be all the signs of abuse or neglect. It is important to pay attention to other behaviors that may seem unusual or concerning. In addition to these signs and symptoms, Child Welfare Information Gateway provides information on the risk factors and perpetrators of child abuse and neglect fatalities: https://www.childwelfare. gov/can/risk_perpetrators.cfm CONSIDER THE POSSIBILITY OF PHYSICAL ABUSE WHEN THE CHILD: • Has unexplained burns, bites, bruises, broken bones, or black eyes. • Has fading bruises or other marks noticeable after an absence from school. • Seems frightened of the parents and protests or cries when it is time to go home. • Shrinks at the approach of adults. • Reports injury by a parent or another adult caregiver. • Abuses animals or pets.
CONSIDER THE POSSIBILITY OF PHYSICAL ABUSE WHEN THE PARENT OR OTHER ADULT CAREGIVER: •Offers conflicting, unconvincing, or no explanation for the child’s injury, or provides an explanation that is not consistent with the injury. • Describes the child as “evil” or in some other very negative way. • Uses harsh physical discipline with the child. • Has a history of abuse as a child. • Has a history of abusing animals or pets. CONSIDER THE POSSIBILITY OF NEGLECT WHEN THE CHILD: • Is frequently absent from school. • Begs or steals food or money. • Lacks needed medical or dental care, immunizations, or glasses. • Is consistently dirty and has a severe body odor. • Lacks sufficient clothing for the weather. • Abuses alcohol or other drugs. • States where there is no one at home to provide care.
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