Family and Community Partnerships

Shelby County Head Start staff approach work with a family as a team effort, from the beginning process of setting goals to making policy and program decisions.  The program actively collaborates with community agencies and organizations to establish a network of support that families can relate to during and after Head Start.

Parents are encouraged to become involved in every aspect of Head Start.  Parents and family members work in partnership with the Head Start staff to set goals for their child’s and family’s development.  An individualized plan is designed to assist them in achieving their family goals.  Parents are encouraged to share their ideas and opinions, to visit the program, and to participate in Parent Committee and other group activities.  Parents can attend classes and workshops to learn about parenting, nutrition, safety practices, preparing for jobs, and many other topics.  Parents also have an important voice in program decision-making by serving as elected members of the Head Start program’s Policy Council and/or Policy Committees.  Many parents serve as volunteers or as aides to the Shelby County Head Start teachers and staff.  When parents are qualified for Head Start jobs, they may receive preference in hiring.  (Thirty percent of Head Start staff is parents of current or former Head Start children.)  Shelby County Head Start staff also helps parents find employment in other fields.

Shelby County Head Start is an active partner with the community.  The program takes an active role in their communities and collaborates with many other organizations to enable Head Start children and families to receive services that are beyond the scope of Head Start.  Shelby County Head Start’s community partners include health and mental health providers, agencies that provide services to children with disabilities, child protective services, child care organizations, local schools, businesses, and other service groups.

Call Kimberly Morris at 901-922-0746 if you would like to refer a child or family for Head Start services or if you would like to partner with Shelby County Head Start to serve the children and families of Memphis, Tennessee.  You may also email Mrs. Morris at morris-k@scgheadstart.com.