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.