 |
||
 |
||
|
Spotlight on Bright Futures
Futures Unlimited, Inc. in Wellington, Kansas has provided services to preschool special education children since 1986. Beginning in 1991, Futures added a Head Start program. Since that time, classroom assignments have been based upon program enrollment such as Head Start or special education. During a reorganization process this past year, it was decided to use a blended model for assigning staff and children. As a result, staff at our three sites (two in Wellington and one in Caldwell) were assigned to classrooms so that there was a balanced representation of both programs. It was also decided that a new name for the program was needed. In the past, the classrooms were identified as "Head Start Classrooms" or "The Learning Express" or "Special Education Classrooms". The new name "Bright Futures", is now being used to identify all classrooms as well as our Child Care Center and Infant / Toddler Program. We are so fortunate to have excellent resources to help us during this transition phase. The teachers identified needs for staff development in the areas of assessment, developmentally appropriate practice and individualizing for children. Through KITS, we have had Vera Lynne Stroup present one workshop on assessment and another on linking assessment to individual needs and writing goals and objectives. Additionally, in February we will have representatives from Head Start talk with us about the new Performance Standards. We feel challenged by the changes, but are already benefiting from the ability to pool our resources. Submitted by Mary J. Beasley, Director of Family and Children's Supports |
||
