The Executive Director of Head Sart is concerned about the impact that federal budget cuts will have on Head Start over the next several years. Although, Head Start has often faced budget cuts, the current state of the economy increases the chances of future budget cuts to Head Start. The Executive Director along with parents and community leaders are increasing advocacy efforts to inform decision makers of the value of the program. Congressional representatives are being contacted through phone calls, asking them to visit a local Head Start program to see the effectiveness and benefits of the program.
SUPPORTS
The Senate Labor, Health and Human Services Education Appropriations subcommittee has approved funding for Head Start for 2012 to continue with the current services throughout the country. 46 million people are currently living below the poverty line, including 25% of children under six years of age. Head Start serves around 1 million children a year and this continued funding will continue to help children and families to be successful throughout life.
INSIGHTS
Head Start programs and day care centers costs basically the same amount of money per child, but Head Start provides day care and after school care, training opportunities for parents, clothing from donations and educational support for parents working toward a GED. Head Start also provides medical screenings and vaccinations, support community activities, and coordinates with social services for families that participate in the program. The government saves $10 for every $1 spent on Head Start. Police chiefs, sheriffs and prosecutors who support Head Start are advocating for the program because the children who are served through Head Start are less likely to commit crimes or end up in prison as adults due to the fact that the children are well cared for and the parents have received training.
I did not find any controversial ideas or statements, but I impressed with the number of students that have graduated from Head Start. Since 1965, 27 million students have graduated from the Head Start program,
Again, I am glad that you chose to review Head Start. With all of the documented support and research evidence of how well Head Start works and the numerous benefits to society at large, I find it quite disconcerting that the government would consider cutting funding for the program. In cities with high populations of low income families, Head Start is one of the ways that children stay fed, clothed, and healthy.
ReplyDeleteWanda,
ReplyDeleteI am glad to see that people are taking a proactive approach to fighting for the continuation of funding for HeadStart! I would like to get involved with this campaign! Did you find any resources to help citizens get involved?
Great post!
Head Start is such an awesome organization. I am happy to have been able to read your thoughts on the organization. I find it hard to comprehend that the funding of this successful program may be cut. The children who attend these programs do not deserve NOT to have a quality childcare program accessible to them.
ReplyDeleteI look forward to reading more about Head Start from your blog. Thank you for sharing!
This organization is doing a great job transforming the lives of children and their families. This is so impressive they have evidence to back the the work they are doing. Thanks for sharing
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