Mission Statement:
Mid Florida Community Services, Inc. is a partner in which low-income people are supported in their efforts to become self-sufficient.
The Program:
School readiness and cognitive development services. School readiness is measured by the skills set out of five domains and their corresponding goals:
- Language and Literacy
- Increase English Language communication skills.
- Cognitive and General Knowledge
- Demonstrate an increased knowledge of pre-academic skills.
- Develop life skills and independence through everyday routines and interactions.
- Approaches to Learning
- Show curiosity, creativity and an eagerness to learn and experience new things.
- Physical Development and Health
- Demonstrate control of their large and small muscles.
- Develop and practice healthy and safe habits.
- Social and Emotional Development
- Express and manage their feelings appropriately
- Develop and maintain positive relationships
Frequent medical screening, immunizations, and dental services
Health screenings include:
- Blood pressure
- Dental Exam
- Hearing& Vision
- Height and Weight
- Lead and Hemoglobin
- Social and Emotional
Oral Health Services:
- Hygiene:
- Children are provided with their own toothbrushes and toothpaste for classroom use.
- Children brush their teeth after eating.
- Dental Exams and Treatment:
- A dental exam is required for every child within 90 days of entering the program.
- Head Start provides transportation as well as the medical professional to complete the exam.
Healthy nutritional assistance:
- Head Start provides breakfast and lunch for each child.
- All meals are served family- style, children are encouraged to serve themselves. Teachers sit with the children during mealtime. Family- style dining helps create an enjoyable mealtime, while still being a part of the instructional day.
Referral services for a range of individual child and family needs:
- Families make goals with Head Start staff and are given referrals to help them meet them.
- Children are referred for health and development related issues (Speech, OT, PT, etc.)
An Opportunity for parents to participate in school decision making:
Parent/Family Engagement:
- Male Involvement
- Field Trips
- Parent meetings
- Home activities
- Parent Committees
Policy Council:
A formal way for parents to be involved in program planning and decision-making process.
It is made up of parents and community members who want to support the Head Start Program.