Program Philosophy

We believe:

  • Early childhood education focuses on the desire for children to become independent, self-confident, and curious learners who can work well with others.
  • Children of all abilities are competent learners.
  • Children develop best in an environment where the importance of play is valued.
  • Play provides children with the opportunity to actively explore, manipulate, and interact with their environment.
  • Adults in the classroom act as facilitators, guides, resources, nurturers, observers, planners, and protectors who provide a balance of child centered discovery and teacher-directed learning opportunities.
  • Parents are the first and primary educators of their children and their strengths will be honored.
  • Working in collaboration with staff, families, Skagit Valley College and local community partners strengthens our work.

Mission Statement: Building strong foundations for lifelong learning through family-centered, child focused partnerships.

In our work together, Skagit/Islands Head Start embraces a shared commitment to these values:

STRONG, POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS:

Connecting children, families, communities, and each other; honored through open-honest communication, and taking time to understand and build mutual regard.

OPEN, ENGAGING COLLABORATION:

Cooperation, open-minded give and take, shared decision making, engaging diverse talents and resources with a focus on common goals and passions.

PERSONAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL INTEGRITY:

Consistency, honesty, sharing thoughts, confidentiality and professionalism.

RESPECT AND ACCEPTANCE FOR ALL:

Recognizing, valuing, encouraging and supporting community and individual differences and perspectives.

HIGH STANDARDS OF QUALITY:

Best practice at the core of decisions, professional development and personal growth, high expectations, personal responsibility.