OKALOOSA COUNTY
HEAD START/EARLY HEAD START
PARENT HANDBOOK
2012-2013
Mission Statement
Okaloosa County Head Start/Early Head Start is committed to the Empowerment
of Children with Diverse backgrounds, families and staff through the Support of
Our Community for Personal growth and Development that will lead to a Successful
Future.
Dear Parents,
WELCOME to Okaloosa County Early Head Start/Head Start Program. Our program is
designed to provide you and your child with comprehensive early care and education
services. These services include developmentally appropriate educational experiences,
health, mental health and dental services. We provide family support services by
offering parent training workshops on various topics, resource and referral information
and most importantly a safe and secure environment for your child.
We encourage parents to participate in the Head Start Program through volunteering
their time in the classroom or serving on the Policy Council. Parents are a child’s
primary teacher and when you assist teachers and other staff, you become a part of
every achievement we strive for on behalf of your child and the program. You are our
most valuable resource.
This handbook was prepared to assist you in your understanding as to how the Head
Start Program works for you and your child. We ask that you read it and use it as a
guide throughout the year in understanding the program’s policies and procedures.
Again, welcome to Okaloosa County Head Start and thank you for giving us an
opportunity to help you give your child a head start. We look forward to working with
you and having a great year.
Sincerely,
Ms. Janet Anderson Clark
Executive Director
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Okaloosa County Head Start
Board of Directors
Chairperson
Okaloosa County School District
Dr. Cheryl Seals
Okaloosa County School District
Dr. Lynn Boyer
6
Dr. Vivian Green
Vice-Chairperson/Secretary
Community Representative
Dick Rynearson
Community Representative
Representative……..Community
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Steven A. Rausch
Treasurer
City of Mary Esther, FL.
Pat Kennedy
Community Representative
Vice-Chair
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome
2
Board of Directors…………………………………………………………………………..3
Table of contents
4
Head Start Sites
5
Okaloosa County Head Start..................................................................................................6
Guiding Principles of Okaloosa County Head Start Okaloosa
7
Early Head Start 0-5 care and education
8
Head Start Pre-school 3-5 care and education
8-9
Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK)
9
Family Services
10
Health Services
10
Immunization and Physical policy
11
Mental Health
11
Nutrition
11
Disabilities
11-12
Transportation 3-5
12
Transportation Rules
12-13
Open Door/Visitor Policy…………………………………………………………………...13
Confidentiality Policy
13
Illness
14
Administering Medication
14
When to keep your child home
15
Attendance Policy
16
Late Policy
16
Emergency Procedures
16
Non-Emergency Procedures
17
Dress Code Policy
17
Persons Authorized to pick-up child
17
Withdrawal Procedures
17
Child Abuse and Neglect
18
Corporal Punishment
18
Inclement Weather
18
Communication System
18-19
Chain of Command................................................................................................................19
Preschool Class Schedule
19-20
Hints for Parents
21
Rights and Responsibilities of a Head Start Parent
21
Parent Code of Conduct......................................................................................................... 22
Parent Involvement
23-24
In-kind……………………………………………………………………………………….24
Parent Activity Fund Instructions
25
Head Start 0-5 School Calendar
26
Parent Resource Page………………………………………………………………………..27-32
Parent Hand Book Receipt…………………………………………………………………..33
Head Start Center Sites
Programs Operate Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Fort Walton Beach Center
Main office- ages 3-5
22 McGriff St.
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548
Ph # 850-244-2606
Fax # 850-244-0426
Chester Pruitt Center – ages 3 -5
15 Carson Drive
Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32548
Ph# 850-244-4959
Fax # 850-244-1194
Niceville Center- ages 3-5
1200 Valparaiso Blvd.
Niceville, FL 32578
Ph # 850-678-8461/6893
Fax # 850-678-5935
Fort Walton Beach EHS – ages 1-3
22 McGriff St.
Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32548
Ph# 850-244-2606
Fax# 850-244-0426
Crestview- ages 3-5
1198 W, Edney St.
Crestview, FL 32536
Ph # 850-682-2912
Fax # 850-689-0193
Edney EHS – ages 1-3
1198 W, Edney St.
Crestview, Fl. 32536
Ph # 850-682-2912
Fax # 850-689-0193
Crestview- ages 3-5
700 Bay Street
Crestview, FL 32536
Ph # 850-689-3645
Fax # 850-689-3645
Lakeview EHS – ages 0-3
227 Lakeview Dr.
Crestview, FL 32536
Ph# 850-682-5931
Fax # 850-683-3694
Laurel Hill- ages 3-5
8264 Stokes Rd.
Laurel Hill, FL 32567
Ph # 850-652-4909
Fax # 850-652-4909
Kennedy EHS – ages 1-3
215 Kennedy Dr.
Crestview, FL 32548
Ph# 850-682-1992
Fax # 850-683-1184
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Okaloosa County Head Start/Early Head Start
WHAT IS HEAD START?
WHAT IS EARLY HEAD START?
Head Start and Early Head Start are federally funded, center-based programs for
families. These programs are available for pregnant women and children (birth through
age 5). Families are selected according to federal income guidelines.
Head Start/Early Head Start participates in a partnership with the family, the community
and the child in order to enhance the social, emotional, cognitive and physical
development of the child. This partnership is designed to ensure that the program and
family goals are implemented to promote future success in school. Children and families
who attend Head Start/Early Head Start participate in family-centered services, which
include a variety of educational and social activities. Medical and dental screenings are
provided for expectant mothers and children. Children receive healthy meals and
snacks, and enjoy indoor and outdoor activities in a safe environment. These services
facilitate child development, support parental goals and promote family self sufficiency.
The Head Start/Early Head Start Programs help all children succeed. The program
recognizes that the parent is the child’s first and most important teacher. Head
Start/Early Head Start values your family involvement in program activities and agrees
to work with families as a partner in your child’s development. The program needs your
participation in every aspect of your child’s care.
The goal of Head Start/Early Head Start is to offer a comprehensive child development
program involving families and the community. Because the family plays the pivotal role
in child development, parents must participate actively in the program and understand
that they are their children’s first and best teachers. It is crucial that staff and families
work together in the best interest of the child. The overall goal of the Head Start
program is to support children and families as they develop self-sufficiency.
THANK YOU FOR ENROLLING YOUR CHILD IN
HEAD START/EARLY HEAD START.
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Mission Statement
Okaloosa County Head Start/Early Head Start is Committed to the Empowerment of Children with Diverse
backgrounds, Families and Staff through the Support of Our Community for Personal Growth and
Development that will Lead to a Successful Future
Vision Statement
Okaloosa County Head Start/ Early Head Start is and will be the Leader in Early Childhood
Education through Exemplary Passion and Commitment from Staff. Okaloosa County Head
Start/Early Head Start provides Cutting Edge Services and Support for our Families, Children and
our Community
Guiding Principles of Okaloosa County Head Start
We believe……

Children are the Priority of the Okaloosa county Head Start/Early Head start Program.

In the personal growth and development of children and families

In letting children express their individuality by teaching them to respect themselves and others.

That children should be given the tools to maximize their learning potential

The philosophy that student improvement begins with teacher improvement.

In seeking new ideas and innovations to the Head Start program by Board members, Policy
Council members, Community members and Staff members

In advocating for public policy for the future of our children.

That all children, families and staff deserve to be respected.

In children receiving proper nutrition, health and dental care.

In making a difference in the lives of our children, families, and staff.

That individual who benefit from the Head Start program should give back to the program.

In early identification and intervention of common risk factors for children and families.

That open and honest communication is the key to success.

That all staff should have the opportunity to be trained and advance within the program.

In empowering the people around us.
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Early Head Start serves pregnant women and children age (0
to five 3) and their families
Program Options
Centered-based Program
Early Head Start services are delivered at centers located in Crestview and Ft. Walton Beach.
Early Head Start provides services from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Parents are responsible for
providing transportation.
Early Head Start Curriculum Model
In Early Head Start it is important to have a clear framework for planning and
implementing a developmentally appropriate program. Okaloosa County Head Start uses the
Creative Curriculum for Infants and Toddlers to ensure the services being delivered to our
children and families are based on sound child development theories about how children
develop and learn. The staff acknowledges the importance of establishing a partnership with
parents and involving them in meaningful ways. We recognize that every individual is rooted in
culture; has the right to maintain his or her own identity; and that culture and family are the core
of children’s social and emotional development.
Head Start Pre-school serves children age three to five years
and their families
Program Options
Centered-based Program
Head Start services are delivered at centers located in Crestview and Ft. Walton Beach
Niceville, and Laurel Hill. Head Start provides services from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Parents are
responsible for providing transportation.
Services to Children and Families:
In Okaloosa County Head Start, our classrooms provide children with wonderful and
exciting opportunities to explore their environment as they develop the school readiness
skills necessary for Kindergarten. The centers are equipped with an outstanding team
of professionals to ensure that your children are being nurtured in a safe and secure
environment.
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Head Start/Early Head Start Curriculum:
Creative Curriculum Preschool/Infant and Toddlers
Curriculum plays a vital role in achieving Head Start's and Early Head Start’s goal
of enhancing the social competence and school readiness of children.
The philosophy behind our curriculum is that young children learn best by doing.
Learning isn't just repeating what someone else says; it requires active thinking and
experimenting to find out how things work and to learn firsthand about the world we live
in. In their early years, children explore the world around them by using all their senses
(touching, tasting, listening, smelling, and looking).In using real materials such as blocks
and trying out their ideas, children learn about sizes, shapes, and colors, and they
notice relationships between things. In time, they learn to use one object to stand for
another. This is the beginning of symbolic thinking. For example, they might pretend a
stick is an airplane or a block is a hamburger. These early symbols - the stick and the
block - are similar in shape to the objects they represent. Gradually children become
more and more able to use abstract symbols like words to describe their thoughts and
feelings. They learn to "read" pictures which are symbols of real people, places and
things. This exciting development in symbolic thinking takes place during the pre-school
years as children play. Play provides the foundation for academic or "school" learning. It
is the preparation children need before they learn highly abstract symbols such as
letters (which are symbols for sounds) and numbers (which are symbols for number
concepts). Play enables us to achieve the key goals of our early childhood curriculum.
Play is the work of young children.
Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK):
We, at Okaloosa County Comprehensive Head Start Program, are committed to
enhancing the quality care and education services that we provide to our children and
families. Thus, we will offer the Voluntary Pre-kindergarten (VPK) School Year
Program, which requires the delivery of 540 instructional hours over a 9-month period,
at designated Head Start Centers during the 2012-13 school year. The VPK program is
FREE for all children who are 4-years-old on September 1, 2012. This program is
designed to prepare four-year-old children for kindergarten and features high literacy
standards, accountability, appropriate curricula, substantial instruction periods,
manageable class sizes and qualified instructors. The VPK class schedule is Monday –
Friday, 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Parents are responsible for their child’s transportation toand-from the VPK program.
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Family Services 0-5:
Family Services
Family Services area coordinates the outreach and recruitment for the program. We
also support families in their efforts to improve their quality of life by assisting the
family’s to identify short or long term goals. We also educate families to utilize available
community resources as temporary assistance; however, guide families to initiate,
advocate, follow up and maintain service; subsequently leading to self sufficiency or to
continue delivery of services.
For example, Family Specialist will provide direct service to a parent, who identifies his
or her child, does not have health insurance. Family Specialist will explore with the
parent the available health insurance coverage, assist the parent to obtain the
application, guide the parent through the application process, and models follow-up.
Once the child obtains coverage, the Family Specialist will educate the parent on the
importance of continuing the coverage, choosing the right medical home, and following
the provider’s guidelines to ensure continuity of coverage. In addition, your Family
Specialist can offer you vital information on various topics as well as complete a referral
to community resources.
Your Family Specialist is looking forward to meet and establish a working relationship
with you to accomplish your family’s goals or needs. Your Family Specialist is available
to meet with you throughout the school year.
Health Services:
The objective of the Health Services area is to promote optimum physical, dental,
nutritional, and mental health of all children enrolled in Head Start. All families will be
assisted in obtaining a medical doctor, dentist, and medical insurance for their child if
needed. Health Services staff will ensure that all children have a health, developmental,
and behavioral screening within 45 days of enrollment. NOTE: No screenings or
examinations will be completed without prior approval from the parent.
Our goal is to ensure that each child, either through Head Start funds or other
community resources, receives the following:
*
*
Regular Well Baby Checks
A complete physical
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*
*
Preventive health services
Dental examination
Immunization and Physical Policy:
Florida State statutes mandate that all children in a childcare setting have a current immunization form
(DH Form 680 or DH Form 681-Religious Exemption from Immunization) on file at the center. It is also
mandated that each child has a current physical exam documented on DH Form 3040, School Entry
Health Examination. These forms are necessary before the child enrolls in Head Start. If either of
these forms expires while your child is in the program, you will be notified approximately one month
before the expiration date and reminded to take your child for the appropriate update. If this is not
done, your child will not be able to come to the center until it has been accomplished. So please help
us by keeping these items current. Your Family Services Specialist or Health Services Specialist can
help you with this if needed.
Mental Health:
Our agency recognizes that healthy social and emotional development depends upon how children view
themselves, and that the behaviors that adults demonstrate are those which will be internalized and
emulated by children. Therefore, the program offers the following mental health services to assist in
promoting mental wellness in children, families, and staff.
 Classroom and individual observations/recommendations
 An on-site mental health consultant
 Group and individual education on mental health issues
 Provide special help for children with atypical behavior/development
 Utilization of other community mental health services as needed
Nutrition:
Good nutrition in the first few years of life plays a vital role in a child’s abilities to learn and to do well in
school. It is also a basis for lifelong nutrition habits. At Head Start we follow the USDA Child Nutrition
Program Guidelines and the Head Start Policies on nutrition.
This means providing:
 Two (2) nutritious meals- Breakfast and Lunch
 Afternoon snack
 Nutritional activities in the classroom
 Formula or breast milk as chosen by the parent
All food served in the Head Start Program must be prepared at the center or be commercially
prepared. Our performance standards require that the food served must be high in nutrients and low in
fat, sugar, and salt. Therefore, we will not be providing candy and other “junk food” at the centers.
Please do not send any food to the center or to your child’s classroom. We will not be able to
accept it.
Disabilities:
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The Okaloosa County Head Start Program serves children who meet the State of Florida eligibility
requirements for Exceptional Student Education and the Florida Department of Health, Children’s
Medical Services-Early Intervention. Services are provided to meet the special needs of children with
disabilities at the Head Start Center when possible. Services are provided by licensed, certified
professionals as required by law. For infants and toddlers, Head Start contracts with Sacred Heart
Development, Education & Intervention (DEI) Program to provide early intervention therapies and
services. Parents need to provide the Head Start Disability Department with copies of any
evaluations/medical reports related to the child(ren)’s disability or sign the Release of Information form
so we can request the necessary information. Parents are provided copies of all Individualized
Education Plan (I.E.P.), Individualized Family Services Plan (I.F.S.P.) and related paperwork on their
child.
Transportation 3-5 Pre-School ONLY!
The transportation component provides safe and effective transportation for children/families for field
trips, medical/dental appointments, special services and limited services to and from school.
Message to Parents
Our goal is to keep our children safe while traveling to and from school.
We need your help in this important task. When you transport your children to and from school, please
ensure that your child is seated in the proper child restraint seat in accordance with Florida State law.
Head Start Transportation Safety Rules
1. Please have your child ready to board the bus upon its arrival. Escort your child to the bus for
boarding.
2. An adult must accompany a child when crossing the street at all times. Parents must use
proper street crossing procedures: Stop and look both ways before crossing the street to
ensure there are no vehicles coming.
3. All children must be seated immediately in their seat belts and remain in it at all times.
4. Please contact the center if your child is not to be picked up.
5. Parents must provide prior notification to the center if someone other than the individuals
listed is to pick-up the child from the bus. Proper identification will be required before the
child is released to someone other than the parent/guardian.
6. Know the Danger Zones of the bus. They are as follows: Both sides of the bus. Front and
back and within ten feet around the bus. Never walk behind or beside a school bus. These
are blind zones and the driver will not be able to see you.
7. Food, toys, backpacks, animals and glass containers are prohibited at all times on Okaloosa
County Head Start school buses.
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These things are very important in making the school bus ride to and from school both fun and
a safe experience.
1. Wear bright clothes so the bus driver can easily see you.
2. Line up quietly at the bus stop without pushing or yelling.
3. Stay away from the curb or road until the bus driver stops and signals it’s safe to get on.
4. Stay out of the school bus danger zone- the area 10 feet around the bus on all sides.
5. Use handrails to get on and off the bus.
6. Obey the bus driver and stay quietly in your seat; no fighting or shouting.
7. Keep aisles clear. Put belongings in your lap or under the seat.
8. Never throw anything in the bus or out the windows.
9. Don’t stick your head, hands or legs out the window.
10. If you need to cross the street, do so in front of the bus -never behind it- and wait until the bus
driver sees you.
OPEN DOOR POLICY
Parents/family members are required to sign in at the center and have identification available. We
welcome parents/family members to participate in our program and all staff will make it a welcoming
experience.
VISITOR POLICY
Visitors are welcome! Okaloosa County Head Start is committed to making your visit a safe, secure,
and healthy one for you and others in the program. We require all visitors to Okaloosa County Head
Start, Early Head Start, or Head Start facilities to abide by the following safety rules while you are here.
It takes the efforts of program staff, parents, and visitors working together to make our facilities
safe, secure, and a healthy environment. All visitors shall enter to the reception area or greeted by
program staff to sign the visitors log immediately upon arrival and must sign out upon leaving. All
visitors must abide by Head Starts policy and procedures. Visitors who fail to follow these policies may
have their visiting privileges revoked and be asked to leave the premises. The program shall not be
responsible for injuries as a result of violating these rules.
Confidentiality:
One of the most important policies that have been established at Head Start 0-5 is our policy of
confidentiality. All children’s files are maintained in locked cabinets and are available to the
parent/guardian during regular office hours. Only with your written permission, will we send any records
or information to any other agency or individual.
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Administering Medicine:
Only prescribed medicine in the original container showing the child’s name, physician, administration
instructions, and all pertinent information will be accepted by Head Start Staff.
Parent / Guardian must:
*
Administer the first dose of medication at home.
*
Bring medicine in to the center.
*
Fill out an Authorization to Dispense Medication form.
*
These permission forms are valid for one month only.
*
One form must be filled out for each medicine.
*
Special permission for medication that is required on a continuous or as needed basis, such as
inhalers for asthma, may be obtained from the physician.
*
Over the counter medicine such as Tylenol, cough syrup, etc., requires a doctor’s note.
Illness:
Do not send your child to school if he/she has a fever or is generally ill. If your child has any
communicable disease such as: chicken pox, pinkeye, strep throat, etc., please keep him/her at home
until the child’s doctor or nurse gives him/her permission to return to school. After three days of
absences because of a communicable disease, you must bring to school A Return To School Notice
from your child’s doctor or Health Department. This will ensure Head Start that your child is well
enough to return to school without his/her illness affecting the other children.
Teaching staff will follow the When to Keep Your Child Home Policy. Teacher will document child’s
illness and complete the parent letter informing you when child I s eligible to return to school if a child is
sent home from school ill.
Teachers will perform a daily health check on each child as the children enter the classroom. This
check is a 30 second head to toe assessment of the child.
If a child becomes sick at school:



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The legal guardian will be notified immediately of the child’s illness and need for care. If
legal guardian cannot be reached, the emergency phone numbers listed on the child
release form will be contacted. The teachers will fill out an Illness Report. A copy will be
given to the Health Specialist and the parent/guardian.
If a child comes to school with a parent/guardian/car pool, the child will be sent home
immediately with that individual. A Symptom Record Form will need to be filled out.
If Head Start recommends treatment by a physician, a note from the doctor’s office must
be obtained stating that the child is being treated and that he/she is no longer contagious
and it is okay for the child to return to school.
When to Keep Your Child Home
Symptom
Fever
Auxiliary - 100°
Oral 101°
Vomiting
2 or more times in 24
hours
Diarrhea with fever
Diarrhea without fever
Skin Rash/Irritation
Ringworm
Ringworm on Scalp
Impetigo
Chicken Pox
Hand, Foot and Mouth
Disease
Fifth’s Disease
Strep Throat
Scarlet Fever
Measles
Mumps
Lice
Scabies
Nasal Drainage (Rhino
rhea) with fever
Nasal Drainage (Rhino
rhea) without fever
Pinkeye/ Conjunctivitis
Mouth sores with
drooling
Signs of possible
severe illness, unusual
lethargy, persistent
crying, uncontrolled
coughing, difficulties
breathing
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May return to Childcare
After fever has subsided for at least 24 hours.
(A child sent home from school should remain
home the following day). Fevers are usually
accompanied by other symptoms which may be
reason for exclusion
Requires M.D.
Note
No
24 hours after last episode
No
24 hours after fever free
When able to contain in a diaper or not
Exhibiting other symptoms
With medical note stating the child is not
contagious and may return
24 hours after treatment is started. Must be
covered while in center.
Cannot be covered/contagious
24 hours after treatment is started
6 days after the onset of rash and/or once sores
have dried or crusted
After fever has subsided for 24 hours
Yes
With a medical note stating child is not
contagious
24 hours after treatment is initiated/ 24hours
without a fever
With medical note stating child may return / 24
hours without a fever
6 days after onset of rash
9 days after onset or swelling subsides
Yes
When child is louse free and the parent has
provided a dated receipt and box from treatment
24 hours after treatment initiated and with a
note stating child may return
24 hours after fever free
No
No
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Will remain in the classroom unless specified by
the physician
24 hours after treatment started with a note
stating child is not contagious
When sores are dried or with medical note
stating is not contagious and may return
When child can participate comfortably in child
care setting
Yes
No
Depends on
diagnosis
Attendance Policy – Absences:
The following reasons are considered to be excused absences:
1. Illness.
2. Temporary family situations.
3. Medical / Dental and clinic appointments (including immunizations).
It is the responsibility of the parent to notify their child’s teacher when they know in advance that their
child will be absent/late or as soon as the parent is aware the absence/tardy is going to occur. This can
be done by contacting your child’s center and speaking to either their teacher or to your Family Services
Specialist. When the child is absent three (3) consecutive days without notification, a conference
will be conducted with the parent and the Family Services Specialist. Continuous excessive
absences (excused or unexcused) may result in the child being terminated from the program. It
is imperative that you understand the importance of your child attending school on a regular basis so
that he/she will become familiar with the daily routines and learn the responsibility of attending class on
a regular basis.
Head Start is mandated by the Federal Government to meet a required 85% average daily
attendance while school is in session.
VPK hours are from 2-5 PM. We hope that you will support our program by allowing your child to be
here during the entire three hour period. VPK attendance is very important, extended or excessive
absence from the program may result in the loss of the child’s VPK slot.
Late Policy:
School hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and to 5:00 p.m. if your child is
enrolled in VPK. Children need to be on time everyday for school and picked up on time. Tardiness
causes disruptions in the classroom, prevents concentration on classroom activities, and leaves the
child at a disadvantage due to getting a late start. We do understand there will be some isolated
instances when your child is going to be dropped-off or picked-up late. However, when this occurs,
please contact the Head Start Center so the teachers may schedule their day accordingly.
Emergency Procedures:
If an injury occurs, the following steps will be taken:
1. A Staff member will call 911.
2. First aid will be given until emergency personnel arrive.
3. Staff will contact parent/guardian, and document times of contact/attempts.
4. Child will be made as comfortable as possible.
5. The Director and Health Services Staff will be notified immediately of the accident.
6. The child will be assessed by emergency personnel and taken to the nearest
hospital if so
indicated.
7. Parent / Guardian have the right to remove the child to transport to the hospital or seek other
medical treatment.
8. A staff member with the child’s health and medical information will accompany the child if the
parent / guardian are not present.
9. Proper documentation (to include an accident report) should be turned-in to the
Director.
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** PARENTS**:
**It is important to notify us immediately when you move, change your telephone number or
change jobs!!**
Non-Emergency Procedures:
If a non-emergency occurs, the following steps will be taken:
1. Staff will contact the parent/guardian as listed on the emergency card within ten (10) minutes of
the incident, documenting times of contact/attempts.
2. The Health Manager/ Center Director/ will be notified of the incident. Should they be unavailable,
the Director’s designee will be notified of the incident.
3. The child will be made as comfortable as possible until the parent arrives.
4. Parent/Guardian has the right to remove the child should the situation warrant.
5. Proper documentation, to include the incident report, should be completed by the attending staff
member(s) and signed by the parent. The signed report will then be turned-in to the Center
Director/Health Manager.
Dress Code Policy:
For children: Parents, please dress your child in clothing that is appropriate for school activities. All
children will participate in outdoor activities on a daily basis unless it is raining. Also, we ask that you
not dress your child in opened-toe sandals or flip-flops. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD! We have lots of
sand and playground equipment that can trip-up little toes. Please dress them in a tennis shoe or
shoes that cover the entire foot.
For parents: Parents, we ask that you remember that Head Start is a place of business, and that you
dress appropriately (i.e. no sleep wear, clothing that shows excessive cleavage, etc.) when dropping-off
and picking-up your child, as well as during any other visit to one or more of our centers.
Persons Authorized to Pick-up Child:
Children will only be released to adults 18 years and older that are listed on the emergency card. Photo
identification will be required (if not personally known) before the child is released. No Phone calls for
authorizing pick-up for the any one not on emergency card.
It is your responsibility to update your emergency card for the following reasons:
 Address
 Telephone number
 Legal custody of the child
 Day time emergency contact person and telephone number
 Place of employment
 Additional persons for pick up
All updates must be done in person, no phone calls or letters
Withdrawal Procedures:
In the event you wish to withdraw your child from the Head Start 0-5 Program, please be sure to let us
know you are no longer in need of our services. Please notify both the classroom teacher and your
Family Service Specialist so we may formally withdraw your child. This allows us to immediately fill the
vacancy with a child from our waiting list.
17 | P a g e
Child Abuse and Neglect:
According to HRS/PL 175-17 (10-82), it is the legal responsibility of Head Start Staff to report any
suspected child abuse and/or neglect to the Department of Children and Families in accordance with
Florida Law and Head Start Performance Standards.
Training in the prevention of child abuse and neglect is provided during the year for parents and staff.
Corporal Punishment:
Corporal punishment is defined as the use of physical force as a form of discipline. This includes, but is
not limited to, spanking, slapping, pinching, jerking, pulling hair, etc.
Isolation refers to separating the child from normal association with classroom activities. Isolation in
which the child is left totally unattended is forbidden. The use of corporal punishment and/or total
isolation of any child will not be tolerated in Head Start by staff or parents.
Head Start is a No Spanking Zone and parental discipline should be handled in your own home.
Parents are also asked to refrain from using harsh words with their child to include cursing while on
Head Start property. Children under the age of eight (8) should not be left unattended in your
vehicle. All Head Start employees are mandated reporters who are required to report these
occurrences to the proper authorities.
Inclement Weather:
Okaloosa County Head Start, in most cases, follows the Okaloosa County School District when deciding
to close school due to severe weather or unforeseen circumstances. Listen to local radio stations or
Channel 3 TV to find out if Okaloosa County Head Start will be closed. The following procedures will be
followed when these situations occur:
 Announcement to the media will be made
 Parents’ day time contact phone will be called
 Children receiving bus service will be loaded on the bus after the announcement of closing and
start their route.
Communication System:
Communication between parents and Head Start staff is very important. We will do the following in
order for us to ensure parents are informed about opportunities for their children, as well as their
families, within the program and training.
 Children will bring home a monthly newsletter.
 Children will bring home notes and permission forms to be signed and returned.
 All parents are invited to attend various monthly meetings and training opportunities.
18 | P a g e
 Send change of phone number and/or address as soon as possible so that we can contact you
in times of an emergency.
 Teachers are required to have two home visits and three parents - staff conferences per school
year with all enrolled children.
 Family Services Specialists will schedule bi-monthly contacts to ensure Head Start provides the
necessary services to families. These contacts can occur in the staff’s office, parent’s home, or
via telephone, whichever is most convenient.
 Parents are welcome to visit the center daily at any time.
CHAIN OF COMMAND
As a parent, if you are ever faced with a concern that you feel is not being met, please use the
following “chain of command.” The Head Start/Early
Head Start Program believes in working with parents and staff to address any concerns a
parent may have with the program.
Communicate your concern in the following order:
Step 1 - Speak to the teacher about your concern when she/he is not busy supervising
children, or your Family Service Specialist.
Step 2 - If you are not satisfied with the solution, speak to the Early Childhood Education
Manager, center director or any Manager the concern is pertaining to.
Step 3 - Again, if you are not satisfied, speak to the Human Resource Manager
Step 4 - Finally, you would speak to the Head Start Executive Director.
Daily Schedule
The daily schedule should provide consistency in a balanced program of child initiated and adult-directed
activities, including individual and small group activities, routines and transitions.
The daily schedule will be posted in every classroom so that staff, parents and volunteers are of the days’ sequence
and structure. The schedule is to be followed consistently; children develop a sense of security from knowing how
the day’s events will be ordered. The schedule may be flexible to accommodate special activities such as visitors
to the centers or special events. The schedule may be revised during the year as the children grow, develop and
expand their skills.
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Pre-school classroom schedule:
8:00 a.m.
Children’s arrival and welcome
8:05-9:00
Hand washing / Breakfast / Teeth brushing
9:00-9:10
Sing-a-long
9:10-9:20
Planning Time
9:20-9:50
Learning Centers/ Activities
9:50-10:10
Clean- up
10:10-10:20 Recall
10:20-10:35 Small Group
10:35-11:00 Outside Time
11:00-12:00 Hand washing / Lunch / Teeth brushing
12:00-12:30 Circle / Story Time
12:30-1:30
Rest Time
1:30-1:45
Snack Time
1:45-2:00
Prepare for dismissal
Helpful Hints for Parents:
 Make sure your child is at school every day unless he or she is ill or there is an emergency family
situation.
 Dress your child in Play Clothes. Children will be required to be in closed toe shoes at all times.
 Spend time at your child’s center. VOLUNTEER!
 Attend and be active at your Parent Center Committee meetings and activities.
 Do not let your child bring toys, money, etc., unless the teacher has a show-and- tell activity.
 Do not let your child bring dangerous items to school such as: Guns (even toy ones), sharp
objects, lighters; nail clippers, knives, fingernail files, etc.
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Rights and Responsibilities of Head Start Parents
1.
Participate in the process of making decisions about the nature and operation of the program.
A. Attend monthly Parent Committee meetings during your child’s enrollment.
B. Be kept informed of current activities / events in the program.
C. Be a member on the Policy Council, Health Services Advisory or Education Services Advisory
Committees.
2.
Participate in the classroom as a VOLUNTEER!
A. Visit the center at any time.
B. Help plan and assist in activities with the children.
3.
Assist in developing and implementing parent activities that will be beneficial to the family and
community.
4.
Work with your children at home and in cooperation with Head start Staff.
A. Welcome and participate in home visits and conferences with the Head Start staff to share
information and ideas.
B. Discuss what ideas you have for the center.
5.
You have the right to be treated with respect from Head Start staff. You have the responsibility to
respect Head Start staff. Parents/Guardians and staff should respect the health, safety, and
emotional well-being of children at all times. Disorderly conduct and/or verbal abuse from either party
will not be tolerated. ( See Parent Code of Conduct Policy below)
6.
If you have a concern/issue with the classroom activities you need to:
A. Request a parent/teacher conference.
B. If issue is not resolved to mutual satisfaction, you can request a conference to include a Manager.
7.
If you have a concern/issue with the Head Start Program you may need to:
A. Schedule a conference with the appropriate staff involved.
B. If the issue is not resolved to mutual satisfaction, you can request a conference to include a
Manager.
8.
If after completing 6 & 7 you feel that you have not been treated fairly, you have a right to file a parent
complaint. (Please ask for form from the Family Services Specialist).
9.
Parents/Guardians have a right to appeal any decision(s) to the Executive Director. The decision of
the Executive Director will be final.
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PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT
It is the expectation of Okaloosa County Head Start families that:
‫ ٭‬Adults will not leave children unattended in the building or in vehicles.
‫ ٭‬Visitors will not play loud music in the parking lot or create loud disturbances.
‫ ٭‬All visitors will respect the building, parking lot, grounds, supplies and equipment and will clean up after
themselves and their children while on site.
‫ ٭‬All adults will treat ALL others with whom they come into contact with respect and dignity. They will refrain
from loud talking or shouting, cursing, name-calling, quarrelling, verbal or physical fighting, making
displays of anger or making rude remarks to staff, children, or other visitors/parents.
‫ ٭‬All visitors are to dress appropriately while at school whether visiting, volunteering in the classroom, or
dropping off their children (e.g. No pajamas, sagging, clothing with obscenities or making reference to
drugs/alcohol, clothing that is of a revealing nature)
‫ ٭‬Visitors will not smoke or bring alcohol or other drugs onto the property including in the parking lot.
‫ ٭‬Visitors will refrain from inappropriate or excessive displays of physical affection with others.
‫ ٭‬All parents and authorized adults will make themselves aware of Okaloosa County Head Start guidelines and
regulations.
‫ ٭‬All adults conduct themselves in a way that provides the best possible model and example for the
children in our care.
‫ ٭‬All parents or community members with complaints are to follow the appropriate complaint procedure as
explained in the in the Parent Complaint Policy (see the Parent Handbook).
‫ ٭‬All adults will exhibit patience and self-control in managing any complaints or grievances.
‫ ٭‬All adults will follow the directions of Okaloosa County Head Start Staff, including administrators,
teachers, custodial and kitchen staff and bus drivers and aides.
‫ ٭‬All parents and staff will drive at a maximum safe speed of 5 mph while in the Head Start parking lot.
‫ ٭‬For the safety and well-being of all our children and families, all parents and staff will refrain from using the
Bus Lane for parking, using available parking in the lot.
‫ ٭‬All parents, whenever possible, will establish a “hold hand” policy with their children when walking
between the parking lot and the building and maximizing safety.
‫ ٭‬All parents are expected to sign this agreement each school year.
‫ ٭‬Adults will refrain from yelling at or hitting their children while on site.
‫ ٭‬Parents will be supportive of the goals of the classroom and the school in assisting their child.
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Parent Involvement: The Foundation of Head Start
Volunteering in Head Start: We Need You!
Parents are encouraged to volunteer for Head Start in any way they feel comfortable. There are a
variety of volunteer opportunities, all valuable and all necessary for the program to run effectively.
Volunteering in the program is a good way to gain skills and knowledge that may give you the
experience you need for future employment.
Volunteering is also a great way to be part of a supportive community that serves children. Here are
just some of the possibilities for how you can volunteer in Head Start.

Classroom Volunteer Lead or support activities with children, read books with children,
participate in curriculum meetings; provide additional classroom support so that each child gets
more individual attention.

Parents are always invited to share a meal with their child and spend time in the classroom.

Field Trip: Accompany a group on a field trip.

Clerical Work: Help file, type, and answers phones, send mailings, and complete other projects
in the Head Start offices.

Newsletter: Write an article for the program newsletter.

Participation in Parent Committees or Policy Council, attend Head Start Parent Committee or
Policy Council meetings.

Share your experiences or opinions to help make our program better!

Legislature Attend legislative events to advocate for pertinent issues.

There are many ways for parents with all levels of skill and time commitment to help in Head
Start. Please talk to your Head Start staff person or call the Family Services Specialist at any of
our locations volunteer work that is of interest to you.
PARENT COMMITTEE
The child’s parents are members of the center’s and/or home-based program’s Parent Committee.
These committees are organized in September and continue throughout the year. The purpose is to
help the staff design and complete program policies, activities and services. This committee carries
out formal and informal activities for the parents and staff through planning and participation. All
members of the family are invited to participate. Head Start/Early Head Start assists families
participating in the Parent Committee by providing care for your children during the meetings. Make
plans to attend your program’s monthly Parent Committee meetings.
The committee elects officers, Policy Council representatives, plans monthly programs, and
maintains a parent bulletin board. A special training for officers is held in September or October.
23 | P a g e
POLICY COUNCIL
The Policy Council is the governing body of the Head Start/Early Head Start Program. Parents are
encouraged to serve on the Policy Council. Each family places a vote at the beginning of the year to
elect parent representatives. The Council meets October -September. Policy Council members
learn leadership skills and make suggestions to improve the Head Start/Early Head Start program.
All parents are invited to attend Policy Council meetings. Each Parent Committee
President will receive Policy Council minutes to report at the monthly meetings.
If you are interested in being a Parent Committee officer or a Policy Council representative, see
your child’s teacher or family services staff
HEALTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Health, Nutrition and Safety policies and procedures are developed utilizing federal, state and
county guidelines with the assistance of medical and dental providers and community
representatives. This is accomplished through the meetings of the Health Advisory Committee. If
you are interested in becoming a parent representative on the Health Advisory Committee, see your
child’s teacher, family advocate, school nurse, or family services assistant.
Curriculum Committee
Parents are invited to become integrally involved in the development of our program’s curriculum, goals,
and approach to child development and education.
Parents are integral partners in the processes of planning and implementing curriculum, as they can
share knowledge about their children, and crucial in reviewing the effectiveness of the curriculum.
Parents are involved in this committee by reviewing the curriculum on a regular basis, and participating
on program self-assessment committees assigned to review how the curriculum is working and
assisting in development and implementation of the curricula.
INKIND
If your child attends Head Start you will hear the word in-kind. What is INKIND? The best way to
explain it is: volunteer time, good, services, or other donations given to the program. By
volunteering the classroom, going on field trips, helping with events, taking home projects from the
teacher, donating classroom supplies, attending various parent trainings and meetings, etc. counts
as INKIND. This shows the federal government you want HEAD START in your community.
Early Head Start and Head Start is a federally funded program. The federal government requires
Okaloosa County Head Start program to match the funding received from them by 20%. If we do
not obtain our in-kind match that is required we must return 4 times that amount back to the
government. This would affect all areas and we may not be able to provide many extra things, for
instance field trips, parent involvement activities, transportation, and other services we offer.
We understand parents today are very active with work and/or going to school. Our program needs
your support. If you have any questions of how you can contribute to our program ask any Okaloosa
County Head Start/ Early Head Start Staff personnel, for we all are responsible for reaching our InKind.
24 | P a g e
Parent Activity Fund Instructions:
Okaloosa County Comprehensive Head Start Child Development, Inc. has monies available for
parents to participate in an activity. This fund is for parent use only.
Parents will be notified how much money is in the parent activity fund at the beginning of each
school year. The amount may vary from year to year. A Parent Center Committee can vote to use
the monies collectively (all Centers’ monies in one account) or separately (each individual Center’s
monies in separate individual Center’s account). Note: monies will be divided based on the
enrollment size of the center.
Parents will provide input/suggestions on the use of the parent activity fund at the beginning of the
school year and submit to the Family Services Department. The results of the suggestions will be
reported immediately to the parents after the Family and Community Partnership Managers
compiles all of the suggestions.
Guidelines for the funds are:
1. This fund is for parents use only.
2. The parent activity must be educational.
3. Speakers, training, seminars, conferences, banquets (cost of food and/or travel could be
covered).
4. Trips to museums, or the like, to provide parents with ideas or information for parent/child
activities.
This information can be found on page 170 of the Performance Standards 1304.50(d) (ii
25 | P a g e
OKALOOSA COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE HEAD START
CHILD DEVELOPMENT, INC.
2012-2013 School Year Calendar
Day
Monday-Thursday
Event
Teachers Training Days, Home visit
Monday/Tuesday
Monday
Dates
July 31-August 17,
2012
August 13-17, 2012
August 14 and 16,
2012
August 6-7 , 2012
August 20, 2012
Monday
Thursday
Thursday
September 3, 2012
September 6, 2012
October 4, 2012
Labor Day Holiday
Early Release
Early Release Day
Monday
October 22, 2012
Thursday
Monday
Monday-Friday
Thursday
Friday-Friday
Monday
Thursday
November 1, 2012
November 12, 2012
November 19-23, 2012
December 6, 2012
December 21-January
4, 2013
January 7, 2013
January 10, 2013
Staff Development Day / Student
Holiday
Early Release Day
Veterans Day Holiday
Thanksgiving Holiday
Early Release Day
Winter Break Holiday
Friday
January 18, 2013
Monday
Thursday
Monday
Thursday
Friday
January 21, 2013
February 7, 2013
February 18, 2013
March 7, 2013
March 22, 2013
Staff Development Day / Student
Holiday
Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday
Early Release Day
President’s Day Holiday
Early Release Day
Student Holiday / Staff Dev.
Monday – Friday
Thursday
Thursday
Monday
Thursday
March 25– 29, 2013
April 4, 2013
May 2, 2013
May 27, 2013
June 6, 2013
Spring Break Holidays
Early Release Day
Early Release Day
Memorial Day Holiday
Last Day for Students
Monday
June 10, 2013
Teachers Last Day
Monday-Thursday
Monday/Thursday
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Staggered part-day classes
Parent Orientation
Staff Orientation
First Day All Students/VPK
Class Resume
Early Release
Parent Resource Page
Parenting/Childbirth
Breastfeeding and Nutrition Education (WIC)
Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 8339254
Crestview........................................................ 689-7858
Fort Walton Beach Medical Center........................ 8621111
Prepared childbirth, sibling, infant CPR
Healthy Families ..................................... 850-437-1450
ex 5
Healthy Start........................................................ 833-9284
Education and support for moms and babies
North Okaloosa Medical Center ............................ 6898475
Classes for expectant parents
Okaloosa Walton Child Care Service .................. 8339330
Resource and referral................................ 833-9333
Postpartum Depression...........................1-800-773-6667
SOZO Life Connection......................................243-5800
Teen Age Parent Program (TAPP FWB) .......... 833-3425
TAPP Crestview...............................689-7177 x 8400
Childbirth Education, Sacred Heart EC................. 278-3600
Military (Military ID required)
Airman and Family Readiness Center
Eglin AFB........................................................ 882-9060
Hurlburt Field.................................................. 884-5441
Family Advocacy
Eglin AFB........................................................ 883-8616
Hurlburt Field.................................................. 881-5061
New Parent Support Program
Eglin AFB........................................................ 833-9890
Hurlburt Field.................................................. 881-5256
Family Planning
Okaloosa County Health Department
Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 8339240
Crestview........................................................ 689-7855
School Physicals
Okaloosa County Health Department
Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 8339246
Crestview........................................................ 689-7808
Gulf Coast Immediate Care Center....................... 244-3211
Adoptions/Foster Care
Catholic Charities.................................................. 244-2825
Children's Home Society ....................................... 833-3872
Children & Family Services
Foster Care, FWB ...........................................833-3850
Adoptions, FWB.....................................................833-3946
Housing
Shelter
Waterfront Rescue Mission................................... 796-0700
Shelter House - for domestic violence victims....... 863-4777
LIFE, Inc. - for pregnant women ............................ 862-9020
Coalition for the Homeless/Fresh Start.................. 243-5648
Habitat for Humanity.............................................. 315-0025
Hope House, Crestview......................................... 682-2374
Harvest Vineyard Mission (90 day minimum)........682-6447
SOZO Life Connection .......................................... 243-5800
USDA Rural Development - home loans ............... 682-2416
Okaloosa - Walton Homeless................................659-3190
Fresh Start............................................................. 243-5648
Foster Families of America .................................... 423-0488
Housing Authority (Low Income Housing)
Fort Walton Beach Housing Authority.................... 243-3224
Niceville Housing Authority .................................... 678-7816
Crestview Housing Authority.................................. 682-2413
Section 8 (HUD), FWB .......................................... 244-5886
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Private Housing - Subsidized
Choctaw Village Apartments.................................. 862-4200
Wildwood Apartments............................................ 678-7734
Oakview Garden Apartments................................. 678-5968
Nicewood Garden Apartments............................... 678-5968
Employment
Labor Finders........................................................ 243-2699
Daily labor for skilled/unskilled laborers in construction,
landscaping, etc. Come to 6B Hollywood Blvd. between
5:30-6 a.m. If jobs are available, transportation is
provided and payment for work is on a daily basis.
Jobs Plus of Florida
A one-stop center for all employment needs, including
vocational counseling, training, testing, job listing and
assistance, welfare transition, unemployment
compensation information, etc.
Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 833-7587
Crestview........................................................ 689-7823
Senior Employment Program.................... 689-7823 ex 220
Social Security Administration ..................... 1-800-772-1213
Southeastern Vocational Service of Lakeview ...... 609-1046
Vocational Rehabilitation
Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 833-9114
Women's Educational Resource Center
NW Florida State College, Niceville ................ 729-5290
Military (Military ID required)
Airman & Family Support Center, Eglin AFB........... 882-9060
www.eglinforcesupport.com
Airman & Family Support Center, Hurlburt Field..... 884-5441
Education
Okaloosa County School Board ........................ 833-3100
Head Start FWB.................................................... 244-2606
Crestview Edney Center ................................. 682-2912
Crestview Bay Street Center ........................... 689-3645
Niceville.......................................................... 678-8461
Laurel Hill ....................................................... 652-4909
Kennedy Center .............................................. 682-1992
Lakeview ......................................................... 682-9531
Early Learning Coalition .................................... 833-3627
Information about early childhood education
TeenAge Parenting Programs (TAPP)
Provides school-based services for pregnant
teenagers, including counseling, parenting classes,
transportation and child care.
TAPP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . 833-3425
TAPP Crestview ................................. 689-7177 x8400
Adult Education
Adult Literacy Center...................................... 729-5387
"Literacy Cyberspace .................. http://literacy.owc.edu
Women's Educational Resource Center Support, training and job placement NW
Florida State
College-Niceville ............................................. 729-5291
Adult Education-NW Florida State College............ 729-5387
Even Start, Crestview............................................689-7918
Community Education - Pre-vocational
skills such as typing, bookkeeping,
word processing,
etc.......................................833-3206
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). . . . . . . . .8333206
Colleges, Universities, Vocational-Technical
Schools
VO-TECH, FWB ...............................................833-3500
Northwest Florida State College
Main Campus, Niceville ..............................678-5111
Crestview....................................................689-7911
Eglin AFB....................................................678-1717
Hurlburt Field ..............................................884-6296
Fort Walton Beach......................................863-6500
University of West Florida (UWF)
Eglin AFB....................................................678-3727
Fort Walton Beach......................................863-6569
Hurlburt Field ..............................................884-2723
Troy State University, Florida Region
Eglin AFB....................................................678-1865
Hurlburt Field ..............................................581-3130
FWB ...........................................................301-2100
S4P Synergy, Inc.
School based mentoring and training...... 862-3899 x100
Information Lines
•Abuse Registry (Florida)....................... 1-800-962-2873
•Adoption Hotline (Florida) ..................... 1-800-962-3678
•AIDS ...................................................... 1-800-FLA-AIDS
•AIDS Testing.......................................... 1-850-314-0950
•Alcohol Recovery .................................. 1-800-ALCOHOL
•Allergy & Immunology ........................... 1-800-822-2762
•American Speech/Hearing Assoc.......... 1-800-638-8255
•Child Abuse Hotline (National).............. 1-800-422-4453
•Child Find, Inc....................................... 1-800-426-5678
•Child Support Enforcement ................... 1-800-622-5437
•Children's Home Society.......................1-800-235-BABY
•Domestic Violence Hotline.................... 1-800-44ABUSE
•Family Health Line................................ 1-800-451-2229
28 | P a g e
•Families First (Foster Parent Info Line)...1-866-517-7766
•Florida SIDS Alliance ............................ 1-800-743-7352
•Financial Services ................................. 1-800-342-2762
•Florida Kidcare Insurance ..................... 1-800-821-5437
•Job Discrimination ................................. 1-800-342-8170
•La Leche International........................... 1-800-LaLeche
•Medicaid Information...............1-800-303-2422
•National Runaway Switchboard...............1-800-RUNAWAY
•Parent Helpline...................................... 1-800-FLA-LOVE
•Poison Control Nationwide...........1-800-222-1222
•Post Partum Support International.........1-800-944-4PPD
•STD Hotline ........................................... 1-800-227-8922
•Stuttering Foundation ............................ 1-800-992-9392
•Substance Abuse Information ............... 1-800-662-HELP
•Toll Free Information............................. 1-800-555-1212
•WIC Program Hotline ............................ 1-800-342-3556
Health Care
Health Care for Pregnancy and Delivery (Obstetrics):
Glenn Bankert, DO, Crestview ...................................................... 689-2223
Sergio Cabrera, MD Crestview..................................................... 398-8940
Candace Cooley, MD..................................................................... 862-1800
Jennifer Esses, MD, Santa Rosa Beach ....................................... 267-2292
Eglin Regional Hospital................................................................................... 883-8242
Gentle Birth Options, Cindi Debnow, Certified Nurse Midwife....... 279-6778
Melinda Graham, MD, Santa Rosa Beach .................................... 267-2961
Janet Hamby, MD, Crestview................................................................................... .689-2229
Michael Hennessey, MD, FWB .................................................... 243-2229
Kimberly Hood, MD, Santa Rosa Beach ....................................... 267-2961
Maria Milton, Licensed Midwife, Flowersview........................ 850-834-2946
Kathryn Stevens, MD, Donald Whitaker, MD FWB....................... 863-1000
David Stoneking, DO, FWB……………………………………………………863-8264
Jennifer Seaton, MD, FWB............................................................ 326-6435
Health Care for Women (Gynecology)
Bankert & Hood, Crestview ...........................................................689-2223
Robert Caputo, MD, Crestview......................................................398-8873
Sergio Cabrerra, MD, Crestview....................................................398-8940
John Carlson, MD, Crestview…………………………………………………682-8485
Candace Cooley, MD, FWB...........................................................862-1800
Jennifer Esses, MD, Santa Rosa Beach .......................................267-2292
Janet Hamby, MD, Crestview ........................................................689-2229
Michael Hennessey, MD, FWB ......................................................243-2229
Kimberly Hood, MD, Santa Rosa Beach .......................................267-2961
Lisa Judge, M.D, Niceville. ............................................................729-1414
Strick Mays, MD. Crestview...........................................................683-1100
Karl Metz, MD, FWB......................................................................863-8222
Thomas Moraczewski, MD, FWB ..................................................862-5618
Ann Nguyen, MD, FWB, Destin .....................................................837-0576
Military Family Services
NOTE: A Military ID is required for all services offered
by the Air Force or other military service.
Family Advocacy Program - Programs include:
Exceptional Family Member Program - for members
with physical, emotional or educational needs.
Family Advocacy Outreach Program for prevention
of family maltreatment and exceptional medical or
educational conditions.
New Parent Support Program - nursing services,
counseling and education for families with newborns or
expecting a baby
Eglin AFB................................................... 883-8616
Hurlburt Field ............................................. 881-5061
Airman & Family Readiness Center - Information,
referral, family skills, marriage enrichment, parenting,
stress management, financial services, crisis
parenting, employment assistance.
Eglin AFB.................................................. 882-9060
Hurlburt Field………………………………………….884-5441
Legal Services
Legal Services of North Florida................................................... 862-3279
Child Support Enforcement .........................1-800-622-5437
Public Defender, Criminal Cases........................... 651-7350
Guardian Ad Litem, Shalimar................................. 651-5467
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Maureen Thompson, M.D., Niceville .............................................897-7277
Kathryn Stevens, MD, Donald Whitaker, MD, FWB.......................863-1000
David Stoneking, DO, FWB ...........................................................863-8264
Jennifer Seaton, MD, FWB............................................................3 2 6 - 6 4 3 5
Health Care for Children (Pediatrics)
Children's Clinic, Crestview................................................................................................................689-0555
Doctors: Rick Lujan, Sharon Rosenberg
Susanna Buchholz, MD…………………………………………………………269-6400
Pediatrics of Okaloosa, Niceville ................................................... 678-9009
Doctors: Tracey Burton and Lynn Keefe
White Wilson Pediatrics, FWB....................................................... 863-8203
Doctors: Lawrence King, Keith Krist, Andrea Loder, Douglas Rigby,
Robert Shelton
White-Wilson Medical Center, Destin.......................................................................... 837-3848
Doctors: Paul Allen and Marilyn Sprenkle
Crestview Pediatrics ...................................................................... 683-5100
Joseph Peter, MD
White Wilson Medical Center, Niceville........................................897-4400
Doctors: Kyle Simmers, Lalitha Vadlamani-Simmers and Hilary Stamp
Susie FitzHarris, MD, Destin.........................................................837-0032
Health Care for Families
Charles Barniv, MD, Destin........................................................... ……837-5181
Magnolia Medical Clinic, FWB....................................................... 243-7681
Doctors: Bill Buckelew, A.B. Russell, John Sites and Peter Senechal
White Wilson Medical Center, Niceville......................................... …………….897-4400
Doctors: Ann Gwinnup, Terry Payne, Andrew Yang
White Wilson Medical Center, FWB............................................... 863-6600
Doctors: Christopher Hansen, Timothy Tuel, Erica Saintilus
John Chomer, MD.......................................................................... 863-4700
Marcene Kreifels, MD, Crestview..................................................................................... 892-2266
Claudia Molina, MD, Destin………………………………………………….....837-5562
Karen Reezes, MD, Destin ............................................................ 837-9064
Pat Tidwell, MD, Niceville........................................................................................................ 678-6735
N. Florida Medical Centers - Sliding scale fees, Crestview…………682-1164
Baker ............................................................................................. 537-2700
Child Care
Boys and Girls Clubs ............................................. 862-1616
Child Care Resource and Referral ........................ 833-9333
Day Care Licensor................................................. 833-3800
Head Start - preschool for low income children
Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 244-5421
Crestview........................................................................ 682-2912
A Family's Future, Inc., Shalimar ........................... 651-5339
For low income, single parents
Okaloosa-Walton Child Care Services, FWB............ 833-9330
Crestview...................................................................... 689-7885
Early Learning Coalition ........................................ 833-3627
Military (Military ID required)
Eglin Child Development Center ........................... 882-7425
Hurlburt Child Development Center....................... 884-6664
Transportation
Okaloosa Coordinated Transportation - Medicaid approved.
Must call 24 hours in advance to schedule ride.
Fort Walton Beach ............................................. 833-9168
Crestview........................................................... 689-7809
The Wave, .50 cents per ride (FWB, Destin)...…..833-9168
The Wave Express, $1.50 per ride....................................833-9168
Food
Clothing
Emergency Food
Oakland Assembly of God Food Bank................... 244-1222
Sharing and Caring - food, clothes, etc.
Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 244-0778
Niceville........................................................... 729-3600
Crestview........................................................ 682-1134
Salvation Army - emergency needs, food, lodging
Fort Walton Beach .......................................... 243-4531
Striving for Perfection Ministries ............................ 862-3899
Waterfront Rescue Mission, FWB ........................ 244-2726
Crestview........................................................ 689-2700
Harvest House, Destin........................................... 837-2277
Nutrition and Breastfeeding Services
La Leche League................................................... 420-3900
Michelle.................................................................................................729-2477
Anne................................................................ 699-2018
Amy..................................................................................................729-1838
Lactation Consultants - Support and help with
breastfeeding.
Carol Durham, Eglin AFB.................883-8001
House calls ............................................. 897-3774
Regina Humphreys, Sacred Heart EC ............ 278-3995
Betty Liles, Okaloosa Health Dept......................... 833-9259
WIC, FWB.............................................................. 833-9254
WIC, Crestview ............................................. 689 7858
Need $$$
Sharing and Caring, FWB...................................... 244-0778
Niceville........................................................... 729-3600
Crestview............................................................................. 682-1134
Family Life Center - for mom and baby............................ 243-5800
LIFE, Inc. ............................................................... 862-9020
Catholic Charities - baby clothes ........................... 244-2825
Salvation Army....................................................... 243-4531
Waterfront Rescue Mission...................................... 244-2726
Crestview Pregnancy Center................................. 682-1011
Goodwill Industries
FWB ................................................................ 864-6677
Destin.....................................................................................................837-8516
Valparaiso ....................................................... 729-2334
Harvest House....................................................... 837-2277
Military (Military ID required)
Eglin Thrift Shop .................................................... 678-4726
Hurlburt Thrift Shop............................................... ……………884-3098
See Thrift Shops or Consignment Services in Yellow Pages.
If you are unemployed, uninsured or low income, you may be eligible for
financial assistance or Medicaid.
Children and Family Services
The Florida System of Children and Family Services is your one-stop eligibility screening center for all available economic and
medical services. Services include food stamps, Medicaid eligibility, well baby care, and Temporary Assistance for Needy
Families (TANF). Department of Children and Families Access Florida Line..........................................1-866-762-2237
Or go online to www.dcf.state.fl.us/ess or www.myflorida.com/accessflorida
Jobs Plus (job training and placement)
Fort Walton Beach ......................................................................................................... 833-7587
Crestview....................................................................................................................... 689-7823
Child Support Enforcement.................................................................................... 1-800-622-5437
Medicaid Eligibility for Pregnant Women ....................................................... 1-800-303-2422
Okaloosa County Health Department
221 Hospital Drive, FWB ...............................................................................................833-9240
810 E. James Lee Blvd., Crestview .............................................................................689-7855
Emergency Needs
Catholic Charities ............................................................................... 243-3959 or 244--2825
S4P Synergy, Inc ............................................................................................. 862-3899 x100
Local Churches.........................................................................See Yellow Pages for Listings
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Counseling
Mental Health/Substance Abuse Counseling
Bridgeway Center……………………………………………833-7500
Substance abuse/mental health counseling
Bridgeway Drug/Alcohol ........................................ 833-9193
Crestview............................................................... 689-7845
Bridgeway Children's Services .............................. 833-7400
Bridgeway Assessment & Therapy ........................ 833-7400
Crestview (group therapy)............................... 689-7810
Catholic Charities............................................................... 244-2825
Specialized pregnancy counseling, marriage and
family counseling.
Children's Home Society ....................................... 833-3872
Teenage pregnancy counseling, adoption services
crisis counseling
Fort Walton Beach Medical Center........................862-1111
Life Inc. ..................................................................862-9020
Lakeview Center, Shalimar.................................... 609-1040
Lutheran Services.................................................. 664-0145
Mental Health Association ..................................... 244-1040
Turning Point Center, for mental health.................243-8086
Genetic Counseling
Rick Lujan, MD.................................................. 689-0555
For more complete listing, see "Counselors - Human
Relations" in Yellow Pages
Support Groups
Alcoholics Anonymous...........................................244-2421
Battered Women's Support Group....................... .243-1201
Shelter House Hotline............................................ 863-4777
CHADD........................................................1-800-233-4050
Parents of Children with Attention Deficit Disorder
OASIS (AIDS)........................................................314-0950
Post Partum Depression.............................. 1-800-773-6667
Waterfront Rescue Mission Drug and Alcohol Program
(6 month program) .......................................... 796-0708
Breastfeeding Counseling and Support
La Leche League...................................................420-3900
Michelle..................................................................................................729-2477
Anne................................................................699-2018
Amy…………………………………………………………. 729-1838
WIC, FWB.............................................................. 833-9254
WIC, Crestview...................................................... 689-7858
For more complete and current support group listings, see
the Calendar section of the Northwest Florida Daily News, or
call the Crisis Line, 244-9191.
Hospitals/Clinics
Shots)
NOTE: Shots are given at the Health Department on a walk-in
basis. The immunization hours: Mornings: Monday thru Friday,
7:30-10:30 a.m. Afternoons: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday,
12:30-3:30 p.m. Tuesday 12:30-5:00p.m. Closed Friday p.m.
FWB..............................................................833-9240
Crestview........................................................... 689-7855
Children's Clinic, Crestview...................................689-0555
Hospitals
FWB Medical Center .............................................. 862-1111
(Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)
North Okaloosa Medical Center ............................ 689-8100
Twin Cities Hospital ...............................................678-4131
Eglin Regional Hospital......................................... 883-8242
Sacred Heart of the Emerald Coast.............1-866-591-3600
Sacred Heart Hospital, Pensacola............... 1-850-416-7000
Clinics
Baker Family Medical Center................................ 537-2700
Children's Clinic, Crestview...................................689-0555
Children's Volunteer Health Network......................622-3200
K-12th grade enrolled in free or reduced lunch program may
receive medical, dental or mental health assistance
Crestview Health Center........................................ 682-1164
Destin Medical Center, Destin ............................... 837-5181
Gulf Coast Immediate Care, FWB ......................... 244-3211
Magnolia Medical Center, FWB.............................243-7681
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Milton Memorial Birthing Center,
Flowersview...........................................1-850-834-2946
Regional Prenatal Center............................1-850-416-2477
(For high-risk pregnancies)
Seton Center - Pensacola................................ ......850-416-2400
White-Wilson Medical Center.................................... ………863-8100
Niceville.............................................................. ……………………...897-4400
Destin................................................................. ……………837-3848
White-Wilson Immediate Care............................. 863-8219
SOZO Life Connection......................................... ………243-5800
(STD Testing & Treatment)
Okaloosa County Health Department
Fort Walton Beach
Main Number, FWB.............................................833-9240
Appointments, FWB.....................………………………..833-9246
Women, Infants, Children (WIC) FWB .............833-9254
Information, FWB .............................................864-8614
Vital Statistics (birth certificates) ......................864-7611
Environmental Health (sanitary conditions)..... ...833-9247
Crestview
Main Number, Crestview.................................. 689-7855
Appointments, Crestview ................................. 689-7808
Women, Infants, Children (WIC), Crestview.... 689-7858
Environmental Health (sanitary conditions)..... 689-7859
Insurance
FL Kid Care - Affordable Children’s' Health Insurance
FL Toll Free........................................... 1-800-821-5437
Mom Care.............................................................. …………………...833-9240
Special insurance for prenatal care
Special Needs
Child Protective Investigations
Fort Walton Beach ............................................. 833-3800
Crestview........................................................... 689-7777
Niceville ............................................................. 833-9237
Abuse Registry.......................................1-800-96ABUSE
Children's Center (Horizons) - preschoolers
age 0-5, handicapped and non handicapped
who need basic day care...................................
244-9187
Children's Medical Services (CMS) - for children under
21 with chronic conditions, whose physical functions
and movements are impaired as a result of accident,
disease or birth defect and whose families cannot
afford treatment. ......................... 1-800-381-3685
Early Steps
Screening, for evaluation and referral for children up to 36
months whose development is delayed or who have an
established condition. Located at Sacred Heart Hospital in
Pensacola............................................ 1-800-281-1845
Emerald Coast Children's Advocacy Center......833-9237
Horizons Birth to Three Programs - for those at risk
for developmental delays, including substance
exposed babies............................244-9187
Pediatric Therapy Center, FWB - physical and speech
therapy, for ages 1-18 ........................................ 862-7227
People with Disabilities.......................................833-3753
SSI (Supplemental Security Income) - income for those
who are disabled and cannot work .........1-866-331-2194
United Cerebral Palsy of NW FL......................... 863-9833
Family Assistance
Alcoholics Anonymous......................................... 244-2421
American Cancer Society..................................... 244-3813
American Diabetes Association- .................1-800-342-2383
American Lung Association......................1-800-LUNGUSA
American Red Cross .............................................682-3356
Big Brothers/Big Sisters ........................................ 664-5437
Catholic Charities..................................................………………………...244-2825
Children's Home Society ....................................... 833-3872
Child Support Enforcement .........................1-800-622-5437
Elder Services of Okaloosa County ...................... 833-9165
Emerald Coast Children's Advocacy Center .........833-9237
Epilepsy Services of NW Florida........................... 315-0000
Families Count Resource Center................1-850-437-1450
Help with rent, utilities and basic baby items
Airman and Family Readiness, Eglin AFB .................882-9060
Airman and Family Readiness, Hurlburt Field ...........884-5441
Florida State Blind Services....................... 1-850-595-5282
Fresh Start ............................................................243-5648
Guardian Ad Litem - children's advocate in court .651-7127
Good Will Easter Seals.....................302-0576
Healthy Families .........................................1-850-437-1450
Healthy Start Coalition ....................................... 833-9284
Hope House - Runaway Teens.............................682-2374
Horizons of Okaloosa County ............................... 863-1530
Pathway (substance abuse) ................................. 609-1004
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Legal Services of North Florida.............................862-3279
LIFE, Inc. - for crisis pregnancy............................. 862-9020
Lutheran Services.................................................. 664-0145
March of Dimes, Gulf Coast Division.............. 850-785-6460
Mental Health Association ..................................... 244-1040
Okaloosa AIDS Support and Information (OASIS).... 314-0950
Okaloosa Coordinated Transportation
Fort Walton Beach ............................................. 833-9168
Crestview........................................................... 689-7809
Okaloosa - Walton Homeless................................409-3070
Ronald McDonald House (Pensacola) - for parents needing
a place to stay while child is in hospital...1-850-477CARE
U F Extension Service - Information on farming, FL lawn
care, bugs, money management, 4-H, health and nutria
tion and more ....................................................689-5850
Children and Youth Services
YMCA - FWB....................................................................863-9622
Valparaiso.................................................................. 678-7733
Early Learning Coalition of Okaloosa-Walton ................... 833-3627
Department of Juvenile Justice, FWB ..............................833-3906
Crestview...................................................................689-7980
Okaloosa County Head Start/Early Head Start Parent Handbook Receipt
OCHS/EHS staff review and discuss with parents the program information, topics,
rules, policies and procedures contained in the OCHS/EHS Parent Handbook. The
handbook is an important resource and reference for OCHS/EHS families
throughout the program year. The handbook contains information that can benefit
families both during and after their experience with Head Start. All of this
information is important, and is contained in the parent handbook:
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.
VIII.
IX.
X.
XI.
XII.
XIII.
XIV.
XV.
XVI.
OCHS/EHS Site Information
Introduction to Head Start
Early childhood Education Services
Family Service
Health Services
Mental Health Services
Nutrition Services
Services for Children with Special Needs
Transportation – Safety Education for Children and
Parents
OCHS/EHS Policies & Procedures
Communication System
Classroom Schedule
Rights and Responsibilities of OCHS/EHS Parents
Parent Code of Conduct
Parent Involvement/IN-Kind
Parent Resource
Child’s name:
My signature is verification that I have received the OCHS/EHS Parent Handbook, and
have read or been advised of all of the information contained in the sections listed
above. I am aware of and agree to abide by the rules, policies and procedure contained
in the OCHS/EHS Parent Handbook.
Parent/GuardianSignature: __________________
Date: _______
Staff Signature: ______________
Classroom/Center: _______
Step 1: Copy to Parents/Teachers
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Step 2: FSS/Copy in child’s comprehensive file