Mission Statement
The Ho-Chunk Head Start Program embraces each family's individuality and nurtures each child to grow intellectually, physically, socially, emotionally, culturally, and spiritually.
About the Program
The Ho-Chunk Nation Head Start Program operates six centers. The Centers are located in Wittenberg, Nekoosa, Tomah, Wisconsin Dells, and two in Black River Falls. The program has the capacity to serve 120 children, and is required to serve children 3 to 5 years of age, and targets children from low income families, children with disabilities, and other at risk populations.
The Centers serve children from September through May, for minimally 128 days. Classes are held from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, Monday through Thursday. Children are transported to and from the centers within a predetermined mile radius of each Center.
Education
The Head Start education content areas address improving language skills, number and reading readiness skills, self-help skills, and fine and gross motor coordination. Your child will participate in many creative activities through use of interest centers filled with art, music, logic, and science experiences. Social skill development is encouraged through this positive learning environment and the use of child guidance.
Disabilities
Each child is assessed three times per year for growth in several areas of child development: cognition, coordination, language, and social behavior. If needed, children are referred to sources, which may assist them in attaining Kindergarten skills. Children with special needs are served in the program, which collaborates with resources to better serve all children.
Health
Children enrolled in the program receive routine health screenings. Immunizations are required as part of the enrollment process. Children participate in dental hygiene practices, hand washing skills and illness prevention practices at the centers. Within 45 days of enrollment, parents are required to obtain a physical and dental exam for their child and submit it to the program.
Nutrition
The Head Start Program participates in the Child and Adult Care Food Program. The children receive breakfast and lunch as part of the program. These meals provide 2/3 of the US daily recommended dietary allowance for children in this age group.
Family and Community Partnerships
The Head Start Program assists families in obtaining resources or training to help meet the self-identified needs of the family. Head Start believes that you, as a parent, are your child's first and lifelong teacher. Therefore, we encourage parent involvement in all aspects of the program.
