Head Start relies heavily on families and community members to strengthen its programs. You can participate in program policy and decision-making by joining the Seattle Public Schools Head Start Policy Council.

The Head Start Policy Council is made up of parents and community representatives. As a member, you have broad authority and review over both the policy goals and the day-to-day operations of Head Start centers, including the establishment of enrollment criteria, the hiring and termination of staff, budgeting, and fundraising.

Becoming a Member
Members are elected by a majority vote at the first Policy Council meeting of the school year. One parent and one alternate are chosen from each classroom.

Types of Members

1. Parents (or persons acting in the same role as parents) of children currently enrolled in a Seattle Public Schools Head Start Program. The parent can only represent the classroom of his or her child.
2. Local community members
   These include 1) private individuals and representatives of public agencies or organizations interested in or responsible for improving the educational opportunities, health, nutrition and socioeconomic well-being of preschool children and their families and 2) past parents who are parents of formerly enrolled Head Start children and who have had a child in the Seattle Public Schools Head Start program for at least six months within the last three program years.

Updated July 11, 2006

Policy Council Meetings
Meetings are held once a month during the school year. Call (206) 252-0977 to find out the date, time, and location of the next Policy Council meeting.

Policy Council Bylaws
The 2005-2006 By-Laws contain detailed information about the rights and responsibilities of the Policy Council and its representatives. Click on the links below:

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