A weekly communication source for keeping you updated on the latest local/state/federal HS/EHS information |
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THE POWER OF OUR VOICE: WHY STORYTELLING IS THE ULTIMATE PROOF OF HEAD START |
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In the world of early childhood education, we are constantly tracking data, monitoring outcomes, and measuring readiness. But the truest, most undeniable proof that Head Start works isn't found on a spreadsheet—it lives in our stories.
Storytelling is the heartbeat of Head Start. When a parent shares how a family service worker helped secure stable housing, or when a teacher recounts the breakthrough moment a quiet child started speaking in full sentences, that is data brought to life.
Sharing these stories serves two vital purposes:
Affirmation for Head Start Workforce: It provides a mirror for the incredible dedication of our staff. It is a daily reminder that the long hours, the constant pivoting, and the deep emotional investment are actively changing the trajectory of children's lives. Your hard work matters, and these stories prove it.
An Awakening for Policymakers: It puts a human face on funding requests. When we advocate on Capitol Hill or invite lawmakers into our programs, a compelling story bridges the gap between policy and reality. It alerts decision-makers to exactly how effective this program is, transforming flat numbers into a vivid picture of community impact that they cannot ignore. Every milestone, every laugh in a classroom, and every family breakthrough is a story worth telling. By sharing them, we don't just celebrate our past—we protect our future.
Starting next week, The Scoop is launching a brand-new weekly feature dedicated entirely to Head Start Stories. |
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If you have a breakthrough moment, a heartwarming classroom interaction, or a family success story, please send it our way so we can share with the Head Start community. |
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US REPRESENTATIVE BILL FOSTER VISITS TWO RIVERS HEAD START AGENCY |
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Two Rivers Head Start Agency recently welcomed Congressman Bill Foster for a special visit and tour. The Congressman met with Executive Director Kelly Neidel and Board members to discuss the agency's recent IHSA Vanessa Rich Innovation & Leadership Program Award and the vital role Two Rivers plays in the community, including its unique pairing with the Kane County Community Service Block Grant (CSBG) program. Leadership used the opportunity to advocate for Head Start, addressing the staffing and financial challenges caused by rising benefit costs. They also shared local school district feedback proving that Two Rivers graduates enter kindergarten significantly ahead of their peers.
The visit concluded with a lively tour of the Aurora West Center, where Congressman Foster chatted with children about math and making laws. Reflecting on the joy in the classrooms, staff member Ms. Maria Ma shared, "When he’s having a bad day, I know where to come. The children make him so happy." Foster expressed his deep appreciation and strong support for the positive impact Head Start has on the community. |
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A CONVERSATION WITH OHS DIRECTOR LIZBETH CASCO-WHITE |
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Illinois Head Start Association, along with other Head Start state associations, had the chance to meet and connect with the new Office of Head (OHS) Director Lizbeth Casco-White. Concerns were shared and support was asked in various operational and programmatic needs.
A major theme throughout the conversation was concern about regional office capacity and inconsistent communication. Director Casco-White acknowledged the challenges and assured that "work is happening internally, though it may not be visible externally."
Participants also emphasized that many of the positive outcomes in Head Start are rooted in strong performance standards and quality requirements. Concerns about the forthcoming 2nd NPRM, where the administration is proposing to eliminate over 90% of the Head Start standards, would actually weaken the program. By removing these standards, it could lower healthy and safety protections, decrease program quality and weaken accountability measures.
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PARENT VOICES MATTER! Take Action to Protect Head Start's Future |
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The reality facing Head Start today is clear: While Head Start’s success relies on a strong, reliable, and well-trained workforce, staffing shortages remain one of the greatest challenges as programs work to expand access for all eligible children and families. Recently, a federal proposal was released for public comment (via NPRM) that would amend the Head Start Program Performance Standards around workforce compensation and benefits.
In response, a national committee of Head Start parents has written a sign-on letter to the Office of Head Start expressing their concerns about this proposed rule and the ongoing challenges facing programs nationwide. We hope you will consider signing on to it.
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| Family Support Staff -
Please share with your PPC and all your Head Start & Early Head Start parents. Encourage them to sign on below! |
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PREPARING FOR YOUR PROGRAM'S FALL IN-SERVICE? |
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Take a look at IHSA's extensive catalog of professional development and training opportunities! |
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It includes: -
Head Start 101,
- Mental Health First Aid for Adults,
- Poverty Simulation,
- Spark Your Motivation & Take Action...No Matter How Stuck You Are,
- Becoming a More Trauma-Informed Organization,
- Belonging: Making Equity, Inclusion & Diversity the Forefront of Your Head Start Agency's Culture,
- The Brain Architecture Game,
- Finding Your Why & Bringing it Into Your Life!,
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Taking Care of Yourself: Self-Care is Not Selfish,
- and more!
We'll feature a training each week starting in the next Scoop. |
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| - Available in-person and onsite OR virtually live on Zoom.
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Can accommodate 10-500 staff for same price.
- Trainings can be customized to your programs' needs.
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WTTW KIDS ACTIVITY CALENDAR: June 2026 |
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WTTW’s monthly activity calendars were developed to give parents, teachers, and caregivers ideas for activities to do with their children. Several are simple, no materials needed and provide opportunities for children to build on their current skills. In partnership with the Chicago Public Library’s Summer Reading Program, this month's theme is focused on Chicago. |
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NO HUDDLE with IHSA This Week |
We are at the Director's Institute this week so no huddle today. We will reconvene next Wednesday at 4PM! |
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Every purchase supports our IHSA Dollar Per Child Campaign
which supports IHSA's advocacy & awareness work! |
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THIS WEEK'S FEATURED ITEM: Powered by Head Start Car/Outdoor Magnet |
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Great to Wear with Pride, Display with Purpose, & Gift with Appreciation! |
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QUESTION: True or False - Head Start can be found in each of the 50 states in America.
How to play: Respond to this Scoop with your answer! (or email lwang@ilheadstart.org). If correct, you'll be put in a raffle for a prize! Winner and answer will be announced in the next Scoop. Last week's Q&A Question: Who is the new, and current, OHS Director? Answer: Director Lizbeth Casco-White.
Winner: Brianna LoBurgio, Head Start Parent at Henry Booth House in Chicago! Look out in the mail for your prize from our IHSA Boutique!
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What's going on at your Head Start Program? Share your recent center activities, congressional visits, field trip adventures, staff spotlights, exciting news, and more!
Let's build community by sharing what's going on IN our community! |
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