Community Initiatives to meet with parents for Head Start services during community meetings set for April, May and June

The City of San Antonio continues to provide information and outreach to families of children currently enrolled in Head Start. On April 9, City Council approved contracts and new Head Start providers are prepared to offer improved early education, health, nutrition and family support services throughout Bexar County beginning on August 24.

Community Initiatives teams have visited Head Start centers throughout San Antonio and Bexar County to inform parents regarding the transition. Department staff will be available to update and inform parents at the following Head Start community meetings:

- Thursday, April 30, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.: The Neighborhood Place, 3014 Rivas St.

- Saturday, May 16, 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.: Ron Darner Central Operations,5800 W. U.S. Hwy. 90

- Saturday, June 6, 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.: Claude Black Community Center,2805 E. Commerce

Additionally, department representatives will attend Head Start Center parent committee meetings in the upcoming weeks to receive parental input on the new Head Start services. New partners will also attend in order to answer questions about their specific programs.

Over half of the 6,789 Head Start students will be enrolled in sites operated by Edgewood ISD, San Antonio ISD, AVANCE and Region 20 – Education Service Center. The City of San Antonio is currently requesting proposals for early educational services for the remaining 2,852 Head Start students. The City will identify providers by May 14 for areas not yet covered.

Children will receive new, higher-quality Head Start services led by bachelor-degreed early childhood education teachers.
“The City understands the needs and concerns expressed by Head Start parents,” Community Initiatives Director Dennis Campa said. “Early education and support are crucial factors in determining a child’s academic performance and development once they start school. Our goal is, and has always been, to increase the self-sufficiency of our families so they can assist their children to succeed as in school and life.”

For more information and updates on Head Start, families may visit Head Start’s website: www.saheadstart.org. Parents with specific questions regarding their child’s enrollment, eligibility or special needs should call (210) 207-7851 where they can schedule an appointment to speak with a City staff person.