Members of the federal Head Start program toured the Arthur M. Blank Early Learning Center at E.A. Ware Monday, May 20 as part of President Biden’s administration visit to Atlanta during the weekend.
The team, which included Health and Human Services Deputy Secretary Andrea Palm and Khari Garvin, Office of Head Start Director, visited a classroom and met with teachers, parents and former parents of students of the program to see how the Y is making a positive difference in the lives of children and their families. U.S. Rep. Nikema Williams (D), who represents Georgia’s fifth congressional district and is a supporter of the Y, accompanied Biden’s team.
During the visit, Y early learning team members shared how they are providing an engaging curriculum that not only serves children but also focuses on the whole family via parent and family support programs that connect families with the resources and assistance needed to keep them healthy and happy.
The visit coincided with the celebration of Head Start’s 59th birthday on May 18. According to the National Head Start Association, “Project Head Start” was launched in 1965 as a comprehensive child development program. Over the last six decades, it has served more than 39 million children and families.
“This visit gives us a chance to see real people doing the work of the community,” said Palm. “We really appreciate the ways you serve the community and offering your thoughts on how we can better serve you.”