This episode of Your VIDHS features the Virgin Islands Head Start program with Program Administrator Masikia Lewis and Assistant Administrator Michael Richards.
Introduction: (00:22)
- Host: Ryan Nugent
- Guests: Masikia Lewis (Administrator, Head Start Program), Michael Richards (Assistant Administrator, Head Start Program)
Segment 1: Introduction to Head Start Program (00:53)
- Definition of the Head Start program: A federally funded, free program for preschoolers from low-income families.
- Overview of comprehensive services provided in education, health, nutrition, parent involvement, mental health, and disabilities.
Segment 2: Head Start in the Virgin Islands (01:20)
- Head Start's popularity in the US Virgin Islands, serving children aged three to five on St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix.
- Duration of Head Start's presence in the US Virgin Islands (over 50 years).
Segment 3: Benefits for Children and Families (1:54)
- Discussion on the unique features of Head Start, offering wraparound services beyond education.
- Emphasis on embracing families, social service aides, mental health services, nutrition services, and parent involvement activities.
Segment 4: Nutrition Services (2:41)
- Overview of nutritious meals provided in Head Start, following USDA guidelines.
- Highlighting the significance of free meals (breakfast, lunch, and snack) for children within the program.
Segment 5: Eligibility and Misconceptions (3:38)
- Clarification that Head Start is not strictly for low-income families.
- Explanation of categorically eligible opportunities, including families in foster care, experiencing homelessness, TANF recipients, SNAP recipients, and children with special needs.
Segment 6: Wraparound Services: Dental and Health (4:56)
- Discussion on the comprehensive health package, including dental services and lead testing.
- Emphasis on mandated testing for all children participating in the Head Start program.
Segment 7: Enrollment Process (5:32)
- Step-by-step guide to the enrollment process, including age and income eligibility criteria.
- Encouragement for families to register, even if slightly above the federal income poverty guidelines.
Segment 8: Head Start Locations in the Territory (7:07)
- Listing of Head Start locations on St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John.
- Mention of ongoing and upcoming construction projects for new facilities.
Segment 9: Recruitment Opportunities (7:57)
- Call to action for families to enroll their children in Head Start, emphasizing the benefits of the program.
- Discussion on available enrollment opportunities on St. Croix and St. Thomas.
Segment 10: Future of Head Start (9:16)
- Overview of ambitious goals for the future, focusing on providing state-of-the-art facilities for low-income families.
- Mention of new buildings, classrooms, and multipurpose facilities being constructed on all islands.
Segment 11: Playground Initiative (12:02)
- Discussion on securing $3.5 million for state-of-the-art playgrounds at Head Start locations.
- Mention of additional funding applications to enhance playground facilities.
Segment 12: Closing Statements (13:23)
- Reasons to enroll children in Head Start: Safe space, love, self-sufficiency, and a progressive experience.
- Acknowledgment of successful individuals who started with a Head Start background.
Segment 13: Contact Information (15:00)
- Providing contact numbers for the Office of Head Start in the St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix districts.
Closing: (15:39)
- Host expresses gratitude to the guests, Administrator Masikia Lewis and Assistant Administrator Michael Richards.
- Announcement of the availability of the podcast on KZitem, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.
Tune in to Your VIDHS for informative discussions about the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services and its various programs. Subscribe on KZitem, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts for more episodes.
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