The children and families of migrant and seasonal workers face unique challenges. In most cases, both parents must work, and childcare is left to older siblings. The wages are low, and the work is seasonal and transient in nature. For most, the end of the harvest season means the end of employment for several months.
In many cases, survival becomes more important than developmental needs, and families are frequently disconnected from healthcare and educational services. As a result, many of these children are not ready when they enter the public education system, setting them up for future failure.
Program Description and Goals: This program offers a full-day, comprehensive Head Start program that addresses the needs of, and resolves the barriers facing, the children and families of migrant and seasonal agricultural workers.
This program focuses on academic development; healthy family behaviors; good nutritional habits; access to health care; developmental assessments and individualized learning plans; and the development of English language skills, all aimed at ensuring these children are ready for Kindergarten, and the public education system.
The Migrant Head Start program has five major goals:
Goal I - Recruit and retain sufficient children to assure full enrollment and the participation of children with disabilities.
Goal II - Provide developmental screening and assessments to all enrolled children and provide classroom activities designed to maximize positive child health, hygiene and development.
Goal III - Provide health, vision, hearing, and dental screenings to all enrolled children and provide or arrange for treatment as needed.
Goal IV - Maximize parent involvement through a Family Needs Assessment and Parent Partnership Agreement, including participation in parent meetings, Policy Committee and statewide Policy Council.
Goal V - Develop and maintain Community Partnership Agreements with community resource partners in order to facilitate the availability of resources and supports to families served through the program.
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