Puget Sound Educational Service District
By combining Head Start and child care programs, Puget Sound Educational Service District (PSESD) provides comprehensive child care, along with family support services, in a single setting that is convenient and nurturing to both parents and children. The program serves 85 children from birth through four years old. Child care providers in center-based and licensed family child care settings serve both Head start and non-Head Start children.
In providing full-day services, child-care subsidies and fees paid to the provider cover staffing costs for the physical care and safety costs for the physical care and safety of the children for the entire day. Head Start money is used to ensure quality, comprehensive services, including: (1) Head Start's health, mental health, parent involvement, and social services; and (2) additional staff time for home visits, planning, training, and interdisciplinary coordination. In addition, some participating child care programs receive Head Start funding for higher salaries, assisting them in hiring and retaining staff who meet Head Start qualifications. All children served by these providers benefit from the highly trained teachers and from the enriched environment. Certain head Start-funded services are targeted specifically to Head Start enrolled families.
Head Start family child care providers must meet the same requirements as all other Head Start teachers. Providers must meet the same requirements as all other Head Start teachers. Providers must receive a CDA credential and complete lesson plans, assessments, individual learning plans (ILPs), and home visits. The child care funding is paid directly to providers through state-funded child care subsidies, while Head Start funds provide enhanced services to children and families, as well as training, technical assistance, and support to staff. Family child care providers receive additional training through a monthly meeting, which also serves as a support network. The Head Start Education Coordinator provides on-site staff training, while the Family Advocate provides health, nutrition, and social services and referral for children and families.
For more information, contact:
Puget Sound ESD,
400 SW 152nd Street,
Seattle, WA 98616.
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