The Head Start philosophy embraces the concept that the whole child must be considered when attempting to educate him/her.
If a child is hungry or undernourished, he/she cannot concentrate on learning.
If a child is emotionally disturbed over personal issues, he/she cannot concentrate on learning.
If a child has a toothache, earache, or poor vision or hearing, he/she cannot concentrate on learning.
Therefore, the first few months of school are dedicated to assessing for potential needs and completing follow-up services to correct those identified needs.
Case Management
The needs of the child and family are considered when planning services through a Case Management process. Children who are considered medically fragile or who take on-going medication receive support services through Medical Case Management, which involves the Disabilities Specialist at ESC-20 and district school nurses.
Collaborative Services
District school nurses collaborate with the Head Start Program to provide health services for the children. They oversee children's immunizations, vision and hearing screenings, administer and store medications, and treat children who are injured or ill. Special needs training is offered for school nurses and staff through the Region 20 School Health and Special Education workshop offerings (see "Workshops" in top banner ).
