Head Start Program to Begin Virtual School, Meal Distribution

The Head Start Program has announced its 2020/2021 school year will begin virtually on Sept. 14 until it is determined that in-person instruction can safely resume.

To prepare for the launch of the virtual school year, Head Start staff will be contacting parents the week of Sept. 7 for initial orientation and distribution of learning packets.

For the entire month of September, the Head Start will utilize its virtual “Learning at Home” approach, which will involve the following:

• Families will receive packages of developmentally appropriate activities and materials to work with young children at home.
• Head Start teachers will contact families twice a week to provide guidance and support with the learning process.
• Families with the required technology will be able to access Head Start’s various learning platforms, including the High/Scope Preschool Curriculum, Hatch Early Learning and COR Advantage. (Visit the Head Start website for details on these learning platforms: www.dhs.gov.vi )

In order to continue to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and to keep staff and families safe, the USVI Head Start program has implemented the following mandatory guidelines for all facilities:

1. Face coverings for all staff members, clients, and vendors entering Head Start buildings
2. Mandatory daily temperature screenings for all staff members, clients and vendors prior to entering the facility
3. Increased, routine cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting of frequently touched surfaces, toys and common areas
4. Increased frequency of required handwashing
5. Individualized use of toys, materials and supplies in the program’s classrooms
6. Provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for staff members
7. Replace the family-style meals with individualized servings in classrooms.