Teachers are often burdened with purchasing their classroom supplies, but in Maricopa County's Head Start Program, that's not the case. The Maricopa County Human Services Department ensures that its Head Start teachers are not forced to reach into their own pockets by ensuring that classrooms are fully stocked with supplies.
The county’s Head Start teachers recently participated in the third annual "Red Carpet" event that offers an opportunity for them to select the latest learning tools for their students.
Jacqueline Edwards, Director of the Maricopa County Human Services Department, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, "We are dedicated to ensuring that our Head Start teachers have the resources they need to create vibrant and effective learning environments for their students. By hosting the 'Red Carpet' event, we empower our teachers to make a direct impact on the materials they have available in their classrooms to enhance the quality of education they deliver each day to our young learners."
Smiles were abundant as the teachers introduced Head Start students to the new sensory materials. The children were eager to explore with their tactile senses and get creative with the new supplies to enhance their budding creative expression skills through painting and drawing.
“These resources that teachers selected through the event play a crucial role in reinforcing the many lessons taught to children in Maricopa County's Head Start classrooms, said Edwards. “We want to make sure that our teachers know they are supported, not only with these classroom supplies, but with coaching, professional development, and support so their focus is on creating the best learning environment for children.”
Maricopa County’s Head Start program, available at more than 42 sites across the county, offers no-cost, high-quality early education and family support services. For a map of locations and to learn more about the county’s Head Start program, visit Maricopa.gov/HeadStart. For a list of available teaching and support positions, visit Maricopa.gov/Teach.