As children in Moody County’s Head Start program return this fall, program managers are planning improvements to their facilities.
Joyce Harmon, Assistant Director for Head Start in the region, told the Moody County Enterprise that nearly 20 children ages 3-5 are enrolled this fall in the federally funded program. Head Start operates out of the Moody County Extension Center, just a block from the public school. However, the space is primarily designed for older children involved in 4-H activities, as the building isn’t owned by Head Start.
Program managers are now planning investments to make the space more suitable for younger children. Proposed upgrades include fresh paint, new flooring, toddler-friendly bathrooms, a more efficient kitchen with a dishwasher, and an outdoor play area with a new fence, improved grass, toys, and a true playground. Pictured above is the playground area the children currently use, west of the building.
Earlier this summer, the county approved the improvements that would come from funding at a federal versus county level. Head Start officials requested one-time funding this spring to cover the updates and remain hopeful it will come through.