parent handbook 2012 13.pdf - Plaquemines Parish School Board

1 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Just Playing
When I am building in the classroom,
Please don’t say I am “just playing.”
For you see, I am learning as I play
About balance and shapes.
Who knows I may be an architect someday.
When I am getting all dressed up,
Setting the table, caring for the babies,
Don’t get the idea that I am “just playing.”
For you see, I am learning as I play.
I may be a mother or a father someday.
When you see me up to my elbows in paint
Or standing at an easel, or molding and shaping clay,
Please don’t let me hear you say “he’s just playing.”
For you see, I am learning as I play.
I may be an artist or a teacher someday.
When you see me engrossed in a puzzle or some “plaything”
Please don’t feel the time is wasted in “play.”
For you see, I am learning as I play.
I am learning to solve problems and concentrate.
I may be in business someday.
When you see me cooking or tasting foods,
Please do not think that because I enjoy it, it is “just playing.”
I am learning to follow directions and see differences.
I may be a cook someday.
When you see me learning to skip, hop, run, jump, and move my body,
Please don’t say I am “just playing.”
For you see, I am learning as I play.
I am learning how my body works.
I may be a doctor, nurse, or athlete someday.
When you ask me what I have done at school
And I say “I just played.”
Please don’t misunderstand me.
For you see, I am learning as I play.
I am learning to enjoy and be successful in my work.
I am preparing for tomorrow.
Today, I am a child and my work is my play..
2 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Table of Contents
Forward to Parents ………………………………………………………………. 4
What is Head Start ………………………………………………………………. 5
What Can Plaquemines Parish Head Start Offer Your Child? ……. 6
Head Start Day Care Licensing Policy ……………………………………. 7
Head Start Philosophy and Goals ……………………………………...….. 8
Confidentiality of Children’s Records ………………………….………….. 9
Discipline of Your Child in Head Start …………………….…….………. 10
Communication Between Home and Head Start …..………….……. 11
Special Information From Home ………………………….……...11
Change of Address and Phone Number …….………………… 11
Daily Communication ………………………………..………………. 11
Attendance ………………………..…………….……………………..………... 11
Health or Illness ………………………….………………………………........ 12
Medication …………………………………………….………..………..………. 12
Hours of Operation for the Head Start Centers ….………...…..….. 12
School Calendar ………………………………………………….....…………. 12
School Supplies for Head Start ………………………...………………… 13
Appropriate Dress for Head Start ……………………...….…………….. 13
Food at Head Start ………………………………………...………………….. 13
Field Trips ………………………………………………...………………………. 13
Home Visits ……………………….………………………………………….….. 14
Parent Conferences ………………………………………………………….… 14
Toys and Games …………………………………………………………....…. 14
The Head Start Program …………………………………………..………… 15
Parent Involvement …………………………………………….…… 15
Parents as Observers ………………………………………..…….. 15
Volunteering in Head Start …………………..………………..… 16
Volunteer Hours ……………………………………………………… 16
Head Start Committees ……………………..…………..………….17
The Head Start Policy Council ………………………….…..…… 18
Education ………………………………………………….…….……… 19
Social Services Component ……………………………………….. 20
Disabilities Services ………………………………………….………. 20
Health and Nutrition …………………………………………….…… 21
Appendix A Discipline Policy …………...…………………………………….22
Appendix B Exclusion Policy for Medical Reasons …...……………….23
Appendix C School Board Policy on Medication ………..………….……. 24
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Appendix D Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting Policy …….…….……… 27
Appendix E Policy & Procedures for Attendance ………..…………..…. 28
Appendix F Grievance Policy ……………………………………………..……. 29-34
Appendix G Policy & Procedures for Confidentiality ……..……….…… 35
Appendix H Policies & Procedures for Photographing …………………. 36
Appendix I Policy on Illegal Use of Alcohol, Illegal Substances … .. 37
Appendix J Expulsion Policy ……………………………………………………. 37
Parent Orientation Disclosure Form ………………………………... …….. 38
Parent Survey ………………………………………………………………………. 39
Parent Letter ……………………………………………………………………… 40
Drop Form …………………………………………………………………………. 41
Community Resources ………………………………………………………...42-48
Transportation Policy
Parent Orientation PowerPoint Presentations
4 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Parents -
We would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to
Plaquemines Parish Head Start. We believe our program will offer
your child a quality, comprehensive, preschool experience in a loving
and caring, safe environment.
The Head Start Program will provide a full school day of activities
for your child. Each child will receive a developmentally appropriate
education using a research-based curriculum. We will also aid your child
in obtaining complete medical, dental and mental health services. Each
Head Start child takes part in an excellent nutrition program. This
nutrition program includes breakfast, lunch and a nutritious snack each
day. We can also aid in providing social services for your child and your
family. We also offer special education services, if needed by your child.
You will also be afforded many opportunities for parent involvement.
If there is ever a time when you are dissatisfied with your
Head Start Program, the services provided to your child, or the
treatment of your child or family, please be advised that we have
an established Grievance Procedure for Parent or Community
complaints. This policy is attached in Appendix F.
This parent handbook is yours. It is designed to begin your
partnership with Head Start by providing information that will allow you
and your child to have a positive experience at Head Start.
We hope this booklet will serve as a helpful resource, and if we can
do anything to make your child or family’s year in Head Start a better experience,
please let us know.
Welcome to Plaquemines Parish Head Start!
We look forward to working with your child and your family.
Plaquemines Parish Head Start Staff
Plaquemines Parish Head Start serves children who reside in Plaquemines
Parish. We are a part of the public school system. We follow all PPSB Policies
and Procedures unless they conflict with Head Start Standards or
State Licensing Regulations.
5 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Head Start
� is a comprehensive and innovative child development program.
� is a comprehensive family development program .
� is a child advocacy program.
� is a parent training.
� is community-controlled.
� is a health program.
� is a nutrition program.
� produces intellectual gains.
� is a catalyst for social change and changes the lives of people.
� is a “grass-roots” program.
� is family-oriented.
� is people helping people.
� goes into the home.
� is cohesiveness..
� is flexible.
� is idealistic / realistic.
� is based on local-assessed community needs.
� mobilizes local resources.
� is cost-effective.
� is parent involvement.
� provides quality preventive health services.
� knows parents as the prime educators of their children.
� is a self-help program
� is a mental health program.
� improves self-concept.
� uses volunteers to match federal dollars.
� is a crisis intervention
� is a human services program.
� includes children with disabilities.
� removes racial, cultural and ethnic barriers.
� has a positive public image.
� is hope.
� is success.
6 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

What Can Plaquemines Parish Head Start Offer to Your Child?
Head Start provides children with activities that help them grow mentally, socially,
emotionally, and physically. The Head Start Staff recognizes that as parents,
you are the first and most important teacher of your children. They will welcome your
involvement in Head Start activities and will work as partners with you to help your
child’s progress.
Head Start staff members can offer your child love, acceptance, understanding,
and the opportunity to learn and to experience success. Head Start children socialize
with others, solve problems, and have experiences, which help them become selfconfident.
They also improve their listening and speaking skills.
The children spend time in stimulating settings, where they form good habits
and enjoy playing with toys and working on tasks with classmates. Your child will
leave Head Start more prepared for kindergarten, excited about learning, and ready to
succeed.
What Children Are Like
They must be active
They cannot generally attend to one thing for long
The watch how things and people react
They touch, taste, smell, and listen
They begin to observe likenesses and differences
They try to understand their world of self, family, and school through play activities
How Children Learn
They learn through direct experience
They learn through active experimentation
They learn through manipulation
They learn through their senses
They learn through the responses of people
How you can help your child: Talking to Your Child About his/her Head Start Day—
If you ask, “What did you do today?” A child is very likely to respond with, “Nothing.”
You get better answers and expand your child’s language skills, if you ask specific questions
such as:
What songs did you sing today?
Did you read or write in the library center?
Did you work in the block center, and if so, what did you do in that center?
Did you draw or paint a picture today? If so, tell me about your picture.
What did you eat for lunch and for snack?
What center did your teachers play in today?
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Head Start Day Care Licensing Policy
Your Head Start Program is licensed as a Class “A” child Day Care Center by the
State of Louisiana, Department of Social Services. The licensing authority of the
Department of social services, is established by Louisiana Law R.S. 46:1401-142 (Act
286 of 1985), making mandatory the licensing of all child care facilities in the state of
Louisiana.
Please feel free to visit our centers at any time. You are welcome to
observe your child in any of his/her activities throughout the day. A requirement
for our rug Free and Safe Schools is that you sign in at the school
office and in the classroom prior to observing or volunteering.
As a duly licensed day care center, this Head Start program is subject to follow
Minimum Standards as outlined in the Louisiana Administrative code, Title 48-Chapter
53, as published in the Louisiana Register dated July 20, 1989.
In addition, Head Start provides services to eligible children without regard to
race, sex, creed, color, national origin or disability.
If you, as a parent or guardian, have any significant, unresolved
complaints about the following of licensing standards, we would hope that
you would discuss your concerns first with the Head Start director to see if
they might be resolved at the local level. We also ask that parents follow
the Plaquemines Parish Grievance Procedures to resolve complaints (see
appendix F). If after that, you are still concerned, you may feel free to contact the
appropriate state officials at :
Department of Social Services
Division of Licensing and Certification
Post Office Box 3078
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70821
Phone; (225) 922-0015
Or the Office of Head Start: (214)767-9648
Local Contacts
(please try to resolve problems locally prior to contacting state licensing)
Phone Numbers/Addresses:
Head Start Director: 504-595-6392
Head Start Office Main Line: 504-595-6430
Principals: BCPS 595-6620, SPES 595-6415, BVES 595-6455, PHS 595-6480
Director of Elementary Education and Superintendent: 504-595-6400 or 504-392-
4970
Address for all PPSB Administrators: P.O. Box 69, Belle Chasse, LA 70037
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Head Start Philosophy and Goals
The Head Start Program is based on the belief that all children share certain
needs, and that children of low-income families, in particular, can benefit from a complete
child development program to meet those needs. The Head Start Program is
based on the fact:
1. A child can benefit most from a complete program, which will help the child
develop physically and mentally, and remedy any problems, he/she may
have by offering a broad range of services.
2. The family is believed to be the principal influence on the child’s development.
So Head Start believes that the whole family must be involved with
the child in the Head Start program.
The overall goals of the Head Start program are:
1. To bring about a greater degree of social competence in children. By social
competence, we mean the child’s everyday ability to deal with his/her present
environment and later responsibilities in school and life. Plaquemines
Parish Head Start expands on this goal in that we hope to bring about a
greater degree of social competence in the Head Start family, as well as in
the Head Start child.
2. To increase the child’s literacy skills and pre-academic skills so that the child
will be successful when he/she transitions into school. This is accomplished
by providing developmentally appropriate hands-on activities in a print rich
environment. Our children should leave the Head Start Program eager to
learn and with a positive attitude toward school.
9 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Confidentiality of Children’s Records
Head Start programs are required by law to maintain confidentiality of personal
and private information, which the staff collects on/or about families that it serves.
What does this mean to you as a parent or guardian of a Head Start child? It means
that it will be necessary for us to obtain some very personal information about your
child and your family in order to provide the very best services possible. The regulations
requiring confidentiality say that we must be careful how we handle that very
personal information that we collect about you and your child.
All information is stored on a secure web-based tracking system called Child-
Plus. Every Head Start child will have two files in the program. One will be located in
the Head Start classroom and the other at the Head Start Administrative office. Both
of the files will be maintained in confidential locked file cabinets. Access to your child’s
confidential information, will be controlled by the Head Start Director and classroom
instructional staff. Those individuals who have access to these files shall be stated on
the file cabinet.
Your child’s file will contain all of the following:
� information obtained at enrollment time
� the results of all health screenings, examinations, and follow up work done on your
child
� a record of all contacts with you, the parent or guardian
� a record of any social service needs and issues, which Head start is addressing with
your family
� a record of any staff notes regarding services to your child and correspondence
from referral agencies
� the result of education screenings and assessments done by staff on your child
� individualized education plans for your child, if needed
� teacher’s observation notes of your child’s activities, classroom involvement, and
progress during his/her time at Head Start
You, as the parent or legal guardian of your child, have full access rights to any
of the confidential information in your child’s files, which has been described above.
Please contact your child’s teacher or the Head Start Director at any time that you
wish to review the information, which we have collected in these files. Teachers and
other Head Start staff members will be scheduling parent conferences with you during
the year to share much of this information with you. You will not have access at
any time to any part of a child’s records other than that of your own child.
Please respect the confidentiality rights of children and families in the program
when visiting or volunteering.
Appendix G contains the Head Start Confidentiality Policy.
10 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Discipline of Your Child in Head Start
The word “discipline” comes from the word “disciple,” which means to guide or
to teach. Discipline in Head Start is concerned with training your child to recognize,
understand, and follow rules. Discipline shall always be carried out in Head Start in an
atmosphere of love, caring, and gentleness. Children will be given a clear understanding
of what behavior is acceptable and what is unacceptable behavior at Head Start.
Physical or verbal punishment shall never be used with your child in
Head Start. This is very important if your child is to develop “positive self-esteem” in
Head Start (meaning to feel good about him/herself). Physical force will only be used
for restraining a child to keep him/her from hurting him/herself or someone else.
Head Start staff shall be trained in how to set limits for children, reward acceptable
behavior, and what steps to use when behavior is unacceptable. Head Start staff uses
only positive discipline techniques.
If your child is having trouble following the rules at Head Start, you will be contacted
by a staff member and involved in a behavior management plan. We will provide
training for you to assist us in helping your child to learn and follow the rules of
social conduct and behavior. This will be of great benefit to your child, not only in
Head Start, but for the rest of his/her life. We believe that a child (and adults) must
learn to be responsible for his/her own behavior. A child must learn to resolve conflicts
and differences in a positive way - not through violence or physical punishment.
It is important for you to assist us, by learning what we are doing with your child at
Head Start, and carrying through the same methods at home.
Examples of physical or verbal discipline, which are not allowed in Head Start,
are clearly outlined in the Plaquemines Parish Head Start Discipline Policies and
Procedures, which is attached as Appendix “A” of this handbook.
If at anytime, you see a member of the Head Start staff or a volunteer at the
Head Start Center, using any type of physical or verbal punishment on your child or
another child in Head Start, please report it immediately to your Head Start Director.
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Communication Between Home and Head Start
Special Information From Home
It is very important that there be good communication between your child’s home and
the Head Start program. We will try in every way possible to communicate with you
as to what is happening at Head Start, and we hope that you will communicate freely
with us. In the event that a significant change occurs in your home, please inform the
center as soon as possible. All information will be regarded as confidential. We will
accept your judgment as to the kinds of changes which may affect your child’s behavior,
safety, and general well being. Common causes of distress for children, which we
see affecting them in Head Start include: either both parents or guardians away from
home for any reason, new people living in the home, illness of either parent or guardian,
illness of another family member, hospitalization of a family member, accident or
death in the family, change of residence, death of a pet, divorce or legal separation of
the parents.
Change of Address or Phone Number
Please inform the Head Start staff immediately of any change in your
address or telephone number. Also, please inform the staff of any change in
the name, address, and phone number of any of your emergency contacts.
It is extremely important that we know how to contact you in the event that
your child or the Head Start Center is involved in any emergency situation.
Our program only serves residents of Plaquemines Parish.
Daily Communication
You will be receiving regular communication from the Head Start staff and teachers
about what is happening for you and your child in the Head Start Program. This communication
will provide important information for you about opportunities for you and
ways that you can help us give your child a “Head Start.” Please check your child’s
backpack each afternoon when he/she arrives home.
Your Child’s Attendance in Head Start
It is important for your child to attend Head Start every day that he/she is not ill. We
have just 165 days to get your child ready for kindergarten or preschool, and we need
every possible day to give him/her a real “Head Start”. If we are to teach your child
the language, academic, and social skills that he/she needs for school, you must help
us by having your child attend Head Start every day.
Please refer to Appendix E, Plaquemines Parish Head Start Attendance Policy
at the back of this handbook for additional information about attendance.
12 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Health or Illness
If your child is not feeling well or has obvious symptoms of illness such as
throwing up, green nasal mucus, diarrhea, or fever, he/she should not be
sent or brought to school. Requesting that a child be kept in from outdoor learning
activities at the center is not an acceptable solution. Our weather is generally so mild,
that a child who is not well enough for moderate play outside on a dry day is really not
well enough to be at school. If your child develops a fever or shows other signs
of illness while at Head Start, he/she will be isolated at once from the rest
of the children. You will be notified and expected to pick up your child as
soon as possible. Please see Appendix B for more information.
Medication
All Head Start students must abide by the Plaquemines Parish School Board
Medication Policies and Procedures. Please refer to Appendix C, for this
policy. Please do not send aspirin, nose spray, vitamins, cough syrup, or any
other type of non-prescription medication with your child. We will call you
and ask you to come and pick it up.
Hours of Operation for the Head Start Centers
The Head Start is funded to serve your child for an entire school day (6 hours). Your
instructional staff will announce the hours of operation for your child’s classroom at
the Parent Orientation meeting. If you transport your child to and from Head Start,
you will be expected to bring your child at the correct time not earlier or later. It is
important for your child to experience the whole day of Head Start activities. The instructional
staff has review activities that they do with the children at the end of each
day. They also hand out all parent communications to go home at the end of the day.
Please do not plan to leave your child at the Head Start Center beyond the
scheduled day. If you are persistently late in picking your child up at the
center, you will be called for a parent conference with the Head Start staff.
School Calendar
Plaquemines Parish Head Start is a part of the Plaquemines Parish School System. We
will follow the school calendar as adopted by the Plaquemines Parish School Board.
You will receive a copy of this school calendar at the Parent Orientation Meeting.
In addition, your Head Start Center will be closed on some days (whole or half days)
for the staff to attend training sessions, complete records, program plans, and other
efforts necessary to provide a quality program for your child.
13 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

School Supplies for Head Start
Your child’s Head Start program will provide all of the school supplies needed. You will
never need to send money to Head Start or pay for anything your child needs in the
program. Head Start does not charge fees of any kind to an eligible child or family.
We request that parents send a beach towel or small blanket for naptime. School
Board policy requires a clear or mesh backpack, if you need assistance obtaining a
backpack or beach towel please contact the Head Start Office.
You may be asked to send some items that you might have around the house, such as
scraps of material, pictures cut from magazines, plastic containers, buttons, or other
things needed for a particular learning activity or theme. You should not go out and
buy such things, merely send them to the teacher if you have them on hand.
Appropriate Dress for Head Start
School uniforms are encouraged, but are not mandatory. Children should be dressed
casually and comfortably when they come to Head Start. They should be dressed for
play, because children learn through their play. They should not be dressed in dress
up clothes. Your child’s clothes should be such that they can easily handle themselves
when going to the bathroom. Dress your child appropriately for the weather.
Please send a change of clothes to the school in a ziplock bag with your child’s name
on it. Three and four year olds sometimes have accidents.
It is important for your child to wear comfortable shoes. Sneakers (tennis shoes) and
socks are appropriate. Shoes should be worn that give your child proper support when
climbing on outdoor learning equipment.
Food at Head Start
Our Head Start program will provide a nutritious breakfast, lunch, and snack for your
child everyday that he/she attends Head Start. Head Start guidelines require all meals
and snacks to be low fat, low sodium, low sugar, and nutritious. All Head Start Centers
do cooking activities at least once a week. Please do not allow your child to
bring food, gum, candy, or snacks from home.
Field Trips
Our program will include planned, regular trips away from the school so that your child
may gain new experiences. Sometimes it may be a walk around the block, or a trip to
a store. It may also be more extravagant than that, and be a bus ride to an out of
town location. You will be notified of field trips in advance. On these occasions, you
will be asked to participate and help with these field trips.
14 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Home Visits
In order to better serve your child in Head Start, our staff will be making 2 visits
to your home during the year. The purpose of these visits is to get to know your child
and your family. We need to know if there are any special family needs or problems,
which exist in your family. We want to help you with any problems that could possibly
keep your child from obtaining the best possible “Head Start” toward the future years
of his/her education and life. We will not be coming to your home to “spy on you” or
your family. We will not be coming to “judge” the quality of your home or your housekeeping
ability. We will be coming to share information with you about our program,
about your child, and how we can better serve you. Home visits in the families home
is an important component of the Head Start Program.
Home visits are to be held in children’s home, if at all possible. Home visits MAY
NOT take place at school. Parents not participating must complete the form provided
by the instructional staff. Our Parent Involvement Specialist will contact all parents not
participating in home visits. If you chose not to have home visits, we ask that you
work on a Family Partnership Agreement with our Parent Involvement Specialist.
Head Start Performance Standards require that we make every effort to conduct
2 Home Visits in each child’s home per year. Refusal of Home Visits will result in a referral
for a residency check by PPSB.
Parent Conferences (School Visits)
Parent conferences will be scheduled with you and Head Start staff members
during the program year. These conferences are usually held the same day as PPSB
Parent Conferences. These conferences will consist of you meeting with teachers or
other staff members to discuss and share how both of you see your child developing in
the program. Any concerns that staff members and /or you may have will also be discussed
as well as possible ways to further identify and resolve concerns.
Remember, if we are to give your child the best Head Start possible on his/her
future education and life, we need to talk with you about meeting the needs of your
child and family. It is important that you are involved in your child’s education. Research
indicates that parent involvement leads to successful students.
Toys and Games
Please do not send toys and games to school with your child unless the teacher
has asked the child through a note to you. If toys are requested from home please
label them in some way so that they can be returned home.
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THE HEAD START PROGRAM
The Head Start Program addresses the needs of the “whole child” and supports the
child’s family.
Parent Involvement
Studies have shown that children whose parents are involved in their education
do better in school. They are more likely to graduate from high school, and have a
better chance of succeeding in life after school. Your child will get a better Head Start
in school and in life, if all family members are involved in the Head Start program.
In Head Start, we are working toward building a partnership with your family.
You are encouraged to participate in the five major forms of parent/family participation
in your Head Start program:
1. Participation in the progress of making decisions about the nature and operation of
the program by serving on the Center Committees and the Policy Council.
2. Participation in the classroom as observers or volunteers.
3. Participating in activities, such as, workshops, cooking activities, and field trips.
4. Working with your child by doing the home activities in conjunction with the curriculum,
attending parent conferences, open house, and parent read night.
5. Participating in the Family-Partnership Agreement process.
Head Start Program Performance standards require that, “ Parents must be welcomed
as visitors and encouraged to observe children as often as possible and to participate
with children in group activities.”
We believe that you as the parent or guardian are the primary
educator of your child. We can assist you in teaching your child and
preparing him/her for school, but we cannot take your place. You must
be involved in our program and in your child’s education beginning today!
Parents as Observers
Please feel free to visit our Head Start centers at any time and encourage other
family members to do so. Head Star has an open door policy. You are welcome to observe
your child in any of his/her activities throughout the day. We do request that
you sign in at the school office and in the classroom prior to observing or
volunteering. Observing your child in the classroom during the year will allow you
to see the great changes and progress that occur. Your own child may be too excited
by your presence to behave as he/she normally does at the center. If this is a problem
for your child, you may want to observe and learn from the children and teachers
at other centers.
Please do not disrupt your child’s classroom by trying to discipline
your child or by expecting his/her behavior to be “perfect” or better than
the other children. Please call the team leader or team assistant aside, for a private
discussion if you have questions about the activities or behavior of your child or any
others in the classroom.
16 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Volunteering in the Head Start Program
In the Federal Register dated June 30, 1975, the law passed in Congress outlining
how Head Start programs shall operate; the following statement is made “Head
Start provides for the involvement of the child’s parents and other members of the
family in the experiences he/she receives in the child development center by giving
them many opportunities for a richer appreciation of the young child’s needs and how
to satisfy them. Many of the benefits of Head Start are rooted in “change,” These
changes must take place in the family itself…….” These same federal regulations state
“participation of Head Start parents” is voluntary and shall not be required as a condition
of the child’s enrollment.” We cannot force you to participate in the Head Start
program, but we encourage you to participate in this program with your child whether
in the classroom or other areas, so that your lives will be enriched as well as the life of
your child. Your participation in the program is the only way that we can assure that
the objectives of Head Start are continued.
Volunteer Hours
Head Start programs are required to be partially funded with “in-kind” services.
The school system provides “in-kind” services by providing our program with office
space, classroom space, janitorial services, and bus transportation. Parent volunteer
hours are another method of obtaining “in-kind” services. Each hour you spend volunteering
in our program counts toward our in-kind requirement. This is why it is important
that you sign in and out in the volunteer log in your child’s classroom every time
you visit.
Parents may also obtain volunteer hours that help us meet our in-kind requirement
by attending parent workshops, some of which involve making materials for use
in the classroom. If you are unable to come to the center you may help us meet our
in-kind volunteer hours by doing activities at home to help your child’s classroom. This
may involve cutting out pictures for children to use to retell stories in the library center,
collecting a variety of rocks and shells for the discovery center, collecting a variety
of plastic lids or buttons for the table toys center, or sorting colored strips of paper for
an art project. Ask your child’s teachers and they will be glad to provide home volunteer
activities.
To encourage parents to volunteer, our Head Start program recognizes parents
who volunteer regularly in our newsletter and with certificates. Please help us make
our program a better place for your child and for other children by volunteering.
Please remember the date and times are important when signing in and out
in the volunteer log in your child’s classroom.
17 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Head Start Committees
The Head Start Center Committee
The Head Start Center Committee is made up of all the parents, who currently have
children enrolled in the Head Start Program. The following are the functions and responsibilities
of the Head Start Center Committee:
� Assist the teachers in the development and operation of every component including
the curriculum in the Head Start program.
� Work closely with classroom teachers and all other component staff to help carry
out the daily activities of the program.
� Assist the staff in planning informal as well as formal programs for parents and
staff. (classroom parties and activities, monthly parent meetings and field trips).
� Elect representatives to the Policy Council and provide support for the persons they
elected to represent them.
� Select a representative from each center to serve on each Head Start Committee.
The Health Advisory Committee
The Health Advisory Committee is established by the Health Manager to address issues
related to health and nutrition. This committee meets at least once per semester and
at other times as needed. Committee members participate in the annual selfassessment.
Male Involvement Club
The National Head Start Association recognizes the importance of fathers or male role
models in young children’s lives. A Fatherhood Initiative was developed to meet this
need.
The Education Advisory Committee
The Education Advisory Committee is established by the Education Coordinator to address
issues related to the curriculum, assessment, and daily classroom activities. This
committee helps develop the Yearly Child Outcomes Plan. This committee meets at
least once per semester and at other times as needed. Committee members participate
in the annual self-assessment.
Parent Involvement/ERSA Committee
The Parent Involvement/ERSA Committee is established by the Parent Involvement
Specialist to address issues related to family partnership agreements, volunteering in
the classroom, parent training, and Head Start Recruitment and Student Selection.
This committee meets at least once per semester and at other times as needed. Committee
members participate in the annual self-assessment.
Facilities/Licensing/Fiscal/Transportation
/Self-Assessment/Program Governance Committee
This committee is established by the director. It meets on an as needed basis. This
committee is responsible for conducting the annual Head Start self-assessment.
18 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Head Start Policy Council
The Head Start Policy Council is the highest formal structure in which parents
can participate in the process of making decisions about the nature and operation of
the Plaquemines Parish Head Start Program.
The Policy Council is made up of at least 51% parents of Plaquemines Parish
Head Start children presently enrolled in the program. There are also community representatives
and school board employees who must be elected by the parents. The
parents of Head Start children currently enrolled in the program must elect all parents
serving on the Policy Council and any community representatives. The Plaquemines
Parish School Board, the Head Start Governing Body, is invited to elect a non-voting
representative to serve on the Policy Council
The Policy Council will:
� Serve as a link between public and private organizations, the Head Start
Committees, the Head Start Governing Body, neighborhood councils, and
the communities served.
� Have the opportunity to initiate suggestions and ideas for program improvement
and to receive a report on action taken by the program administration
with regard to its recommendations.
� Recruit volunteer services from parents, community residents and community
resources to meet identified program needs.
� Vote on Head Start Policies and Procedures according to Head Start Program
Performance Standards.
Nominations and election of Policy Council Members and alternates occurs at Parent
Orientation.
Policy Council meets at least 6 times per program year. Some meetings are scheduled
others may be called on an as needed basis by Head Start Administrative Staff or by
any Policy Council Member.
Policy Council Training occurs immediately preceding the first Policy Council Meeting.
Additional Training is scheduled as needed.
19 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Education
Each child is a unique individual. All children need a variety of experiences before they
enter kindergarten. The purpose of our program is to provide these experiences to our children.
In our program, we want to develop your child’s language ability, while helping him/her
to feel good about him/herself. These two things have been identified and having a great deal
to do with how well a child does in school. Well developed literacy skills and a positive selfimage
will give your child a “Head Start” in school. Head Start is designed to meet the individual
needs of each child. We use a curriculum that is “Developmentally Appropriate.” This
means that it is correct for your child’s stage of growth or development.
Children Learn Through Play: You will see your child involved in activities at
Head Start, which you might consider “just playing.” You should know that professional educators
would tell you that young children learn through their play. Young children acquire
knowledge through play interaction with objects and people. When you walk into your child’s
classroom, you will see a lot of toys and different areas for play called learning centers. This
play is how your child works and learns. Each area is carefully planned with a teaching goal in
mind. All of these goals are meant to teach your child language skills, pre-academic skills, social
skills, and help him/her feel good about him/herself.
Your child’s teachers have been trained to set up a planned environment (learning centers)
and planned developmentally appropriate activities, which will motivate your child to
learn. This means that the activities, the materials, and the room arrangement are absolutely
right for your child to learn at his/her current stage of development or growth. Children are
naturally curious, active and creative. With that in mind, we provide activities that encourage
each child to develop physically, intellectually, socially, and emotionally at an individual pace in
an environment that provides flexible and interesting learning areas.
In your child’s classroom you will find a schedule of activities for each day. This schedule
includes active and quiet times; group and individual times, inside and outdoor play. Every
day is planned to take full advantage of each learning moment. The Team Leader and Team
Assistant act as your child’s guide and support throughout all learning activities. Every minute
of the day offers a chance to help your child learn. With specific activities that encourage success,
we take advantage of every chance.
The school year is divided into themes. Some activity areas, such as blocks, table toys,
discovery, dramatic play, art, computer, and library are permanent areas in the classroom and
are a choice every day. Other temporary learning areas, such as dentist’s office, music, or
cooking may be available to correspond with themes.
You will receive newsletters about what is happening in the classroom, and upcoming
events. You will be provided many opportunities to be involved with your child’s growth and
development in school.
A wide variety of techniques are used for reducing negative behavior,
and encouraging appropriate behavior. Our primary goal is to encourage
self-control and self-sufficiency. Head Start uses positive discipline methods.
We will provide specific rules for your child’s behavior. Teachers develop activities and
set limits that encourage your child to follow those rules. For instance, how the classroom is
arranged, and how many children work in each learning center, both affect how the children
behave. Setting up a few classroom rules, explaining why they are necessary, enforcing them
consistently, and letting the children understand what happens when they break them, will
20 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

help establish the right atmosphere. Helping children express themselves verbally rather than
physically is another aspect of self-control. We do not spank children, yell at children,
or use other forms of physical or emotional punishment. We wish to offer
a program and environment that minimizes the need for such actions. We will look to you for
help when necessary. Together we can develop self-discipline in you child.
Our Head Start Program uses the Creative Curriculum as our Framework. It is a research-based
effective preschool curriculum which meets Head Start and NAEYC Standards.
Please refer to your Parent’s Guide to Preschool booklet which is published by the creators of
the Creative Curriculum. As a part of Plaquemines Parish Schools we also implement the Louisiana
Comprehensive Curriculum for Preschool. By using the curriculum the local school system
uses children easily transition into kindergarten and are well prepared. The Creative Curriculum
is aligned with the Head Start Outcomes Framework.
For young children school should be a positive experience that makes them happy and
eager to learn. Head Start stresses the use of Developmentally Appropriate Practices. For the
majority of preschool children Xeroxed worksheets are not developmentally appropriate and
are an ineffective method of teaching young children. Worksheets may be placed in centers
for children to select as an option, however, no Head Start child shall ever be required
to complete a worksheet at home or at school.
Social Services Component
Head Start is a program that will assist your family in assessing your social service
needs, as well as, provide information and services that will build on the individual
strengths of your family. Staff members who are directly involved in assessing your
family with social services are the Director/Disabilities Coordinator, Parent Specialist,
and the Social Worker.
Disabilities Component
The disabilities component is concerned with providing services to children who
are identified as having special needs. A child with special needs can often learn more
readily in a group with other children than in a separate group exclusively for special
needs children. This is called inclusion. Head Start has carried out a 1972 congressional
mandate requiring that at least 10 percent of its enrollment in each program be
available for children with disabilities. Special needs children and their families receive
the same services as any other child in our program. In addition, Head Start members
work closely with Plaquemines Parish Special Education Department to provide services
to meet the special needs of these children. If you believe that your child has a
special need, please talk to the Head Start staff about your concerns. We will do everything
possible to meet the needs of your child.
21 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Mental Health
To be effective, our Head Start programs must support staff, parents, and children
in their abilities to develop relationships, feel good about themselves, manage
daily stress, and solve problems. Many of our activities promote good mental health in
the classroom. Some of the ways that we in Head Start provide mental health programs
for families include:
� Parenting classes which focus on various topics such as discipline,
child growth and development, literacy, stress management, emergency
preparedness, money management and smart shopping, etc.
� Social events and celebrations
� Center Committees, Policy Council
� Volunteer of the Month Program
� Referrals to community agencies
Health
Head Start believes in the importance of early identification of health problems.
We will provide every child with a complete health care program, including medical,
dental, mental health and nutritional services. We will provide transportation if necessary,
and do everything possible to make sure that your child receives all of the necessary
health screenings, examinations, immunizations, and follow-up health services. It
is very important that your child receive all of these services if we are to give him/her
the Head Start he/she needs for school. If you have health concerns about your child
at the beginning or during the year, please share these concerns with the staff.
Nutrition
The Plaquemines Parish School Board Nutrition Program assists Head Start in
providing food which will help meet your child’s daily nutritional needs, while recognizing
differences and cultural patterns. Your child will receive breakfast, lunch, and the
necessary number of snacks that meet the nutritional requirements of a child three to
five years of age. All Head Start children are served all of the foods on the daily cafeteria
menu and will be encouraged, but never forced or bribed, to learn to eat the
foods served.
Our menus are posted in the classroom for all visitors to see. Please do not
send food with your child to Head Start. We will provide all the food needs.
In accordance with Head Start Program Performance Standards all meals and
snacks will be nutritious and low in sodium, sugar, and fat.
22 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Appendix A
Plaquemines Parish School Board Head Start Discipline Policy
……………………………………………………………..………………………………………
The first concern of the Head Start staff is to provide an environment in which all
of the students can grow and develop in a positive manner. The atmosphere within
each classroom will be positive and will be structured so that each child can achieve
his/her highest potential. The goal of the Plaquemines Parish Head Start Program is to
promote self-discipline on the part of the students.
Rules will be developed at each class site to meet the needs of the students
within that individual classroom. A list of major rules will be posted in each classroom.
These rules will be reviewed with the children on a weekly basis. Each classroom site
will send a copy of these rules to the Head Start Director for approval.
The Head Start Staff shall use the following types of positive discipline:
� Redirection of undesirable behavior by the staff
� Use of the Better Choice Chair by the students to provide time for
thought about significant behavior change.
� Use of positive language reinforcement by the staff.
� Use of the Growing Up Strong Character Development Program. The
staff will use the dolls, Gus and Gussie to implement this program.
� The teachers will serve as role models for correct and positive behavior
traits.
� The staff will use certificates for reinforcement of positive and correct behavior.
� Each center will have a quiet area. This center will contain items such as
writing material for self-expression and reflection.
All classroom management techniques will be applied with the dignity and safety of
the child as the paramount concern. AT NO TIME WILL ANY FORM OF CORPORAL
PUNISHMENT BE USED IN ANY HEAD START CLASSROOM IN PLAQUEMINES PARISH.
THE USE OF CORPORAL PUNISHMENT BY ANY STAFF MEMBER WILL BE GROUNDS
FOR EMPLOYMENT REVIEW AND POSSIBLE DISMISSAL.
The following methods of discipline are prohibited:
� No child shall be subject to physical punishment, corporal punishment, verbal
abuse or threats.
� Cruel, severe, unusual or unnecessary punishment shall not be inflected upon children.
� Derogatory remarks shall not be made in the presence of children about family
members of children or about the children themselves.
� No child or group of children shall be allowed to discipline another child.
� When a child is removed from the group for disciplinary reasons, he/she shall never
be deprived of meals or snacks or any part thereof for disciplinary reasons.
23 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Appendix B
Policies and Procedures For the Temporary Exclusion
of Head Start Children
For Medical Reasons and Long Term Exclusion
Based on Special Medical or Medication Needs
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Children may be temporarily excluded from the Head Start program if it is suspected
that they have a condition that might impact the health of other children in
the program. Reasons for short-term exclusion will include, but not be limited to the
following observable or measurable conditions:
A temperature of 101 degrees Fahrenheit
Inflamed, swollen, red, and watering eye or eyes.
Rashes of unknown origin
Presence of nits in the hair
Lack of proper immunizations
Any condition that needs medical treatment beyond capabilities of the
Head Start instructional staff or the school nurse.
When possible, the Head Start instructional staff will seek advice from the school
nurse before excluding a child from the program. When this is not possible, it will be
the responsibility of the instructional staff to exclude any child who might pose a health
risk to themselves or to other children in the classroom.
If exclusion becomes necessary, the instructional staff will call the parents and
explain why the child is being excluded, and what steps must be taken in order to admit
the child to the classroom. In general, admittance will be based on correspondence
from a doctor stating that it is safe for the child to return to the program.
At all times, exclusion and admittance, will follow guidelines established by the
Plaquemines Parish School Board. When possible, the school nurse will be consulted in
cases where the cause of symptoms is in question.
It is the policy of Plaquemines Parish Head Start not to deny admittance to, or to
exclude from our program, any child who needs medication or specialized medical
procedures. It will be the responsibility of our program to provide training to our instructional
staff so that specialized medical needs can be met within our classrooms.
The only time a child will be subject to long-term exclusion will be if the child’s
condition poses a specific risk to the health and/or safety of other children. The presence
and nature of such a condition must be certified by a health care professional.
No child will be subject to long-term exclusion without a meeting with the parents,
center instructional staff, health coordinator and health care professional. The
primary purpose of this meeting will be to determine if any type of modification can
be made in order to allow the child to remain in or be admitted to our program. Only
after it is determined that modifications are not feasible, will a child be subject to longterm
exclusion. Parents may request that the findings and conclusions of this committee
be reviewed by an independent healthcare professional.
24 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Appendix C
Plaquemines Parish School Board Policy on Medication
……………………………………………………………..…………………………………………………………..
Plaquemines Parish Schools will enforce vigorously the policy on medication in the
schools. This policy states:
As a general principle, medication should not be given at school. Children
should not be allowed to have any medication in their possession on the school
grounds. Teachers and principals have the right to take the medication from the child
and contact the parent for appropriate information. Dosage of antibiotics and other
short-term medications, including nonprescription medication should be adjusted so
that none will be administered at school.
Possible exceptions to the general policy:
� Medication for behavior modification (Ritalin)
� Insect sting allergy—MUST have a note from the physician with specific instructions
� Anticonvulsive medication (Dilantin, Phenobarbital)
� Medication for asthmatic conditions
The following items apply to the afore listed exceptions:
WRITTEN ORDERS, APPROPRIATE CONTAINERS, LABELS, AND INFORMATION
Medication shall not be administered to any student without an order from a Louisiana
licensed physician or dentist and it shall include the following information:
� The student’s name
� The name and signature of the physician/dentist
� Physician’s/dentist’s business address, office phone number, or emergency phone
numbers
� The frequency and time of the medication
� The route and dosage of medication
� A written statement of the desired effects and the child’s specific potential adverse
effects
Medication shall be provided to the school by the parent or guardian in the
container that meets acceptable pharmaceutical standards and shall include the following
information:
-Name of pharmacy
-Address and telephone number of pharmacy
-Prescription number
-Date dispensed
-Name of student
-Clear direction for use, including the route and frequency
-Drug name and strength
-Last name and initial of pharmacist
-Cautionary auxiliary labels, if applicable
-Physician or dentist’s name
ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION: GENERAL PROVISIONS
During the period when the medication is administered, the person administering
medication shall be relieved of all other duties. This requirement does not include
the observation period required in Section II E. The local school systems shall determine
how to implement this requirement.
25 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Except in life threatening situations, trained unlicensed school employees may
not administer injectable medications.
All medications shall be stored in a secured locked area or locked drawer with
limited access except by authorized personnel.
Unlicensed personnel shall administer only oral, inhalant, topical ointment for
diaper rash, and emergency medication at school.
A school employee shall observe each student for a period of 45 minutes following
the administration of medication. This observation will take place during the school
day.
School medication orders shall be limited to medications, which cannot be administered
before or after school hours.
PRINCIPAL
The principal shall designate at least two employees to receive training and administer
medications in each school.
TEACHER
The classroom teacher who is not otherwise previously contractually required
shall not be assigned to administer medications to students. A teacher may request in
writing to volunteer to administer medications to his/her own students. The administration
of medications shall not be a condition of employment of teachers employed
subsequent to July 1, 1994.
PARENT / GUARDIAN
The parent/guardian who wished medication administered to his/her child shall
provide the following:
A letter of request and authorization should contain the following information:
-Name of the student
-Clear instructions
-Rx number, if any
-Current date
-Name, dosage, frequency, and route of medication
-Name of physician or dentist
-Printed name and signature of parent / guardian
-Emergency phone number of parent / guardian
-Statement granting or withholding release of medical information
Written orders for all medications to be given at school, including annual renewal
at the beginning of the school year
A prescription for all medications to be administered at school, including medications
that might ordinarily be available over the counter.
A list of medications that the student is currently receiving at home and school,
if that listing is not a violation of confidentiality or contrary to the request of the parent/
guardian or student.
A list of names and telephone numbers of persons to be notified in case of
medical emergency in addition to the parent/guardian and licensed prescriber.
Arrangements for the safe delivery of the medication to and from school in the
original labeled container as dispensed by the pharmacist; a responsible adult shall
deliver the medication
All aerosol medications shall be delivered to the school in pre-measured dosages.
26 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

No more than a 35 school day supply of medication shall be kept at school
The initial dose of a medication shall be administered by the student’s parent/
guardian outside the school jurisdiction with sufficient time for observation for adverse
reactions.
The parent/guardian shall also work with those personnel designated to administer
medication as follows:
-Cooperate in counting the medication with the designated school personnel
who receives it and sign a drug receipt form.
-Cooperate with school staff to provide for safe, appropriate administration
of medications to students, such as positioning, and suggestion or
liquids or foods to be given with the medication
-Assist in the development of the emergency plan for each student
-Comply with written and verbal communication regarding school policies
-Grant permission to destroy unused, contaminated, discontinued, or out
-of-date medication according to the school guidelines
STUDENT CONFIDENTIALITY
All student information shall be kept confidential
27 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Appendix D
Plaquemines Parish Head Start
Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Policy
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
The Louisiana Children’s Code, Title VI, Article 601, Child in Need of Care provides
for the protection of children whose physical or mental health and welfare is substantially
at risk of harm by physical abuse, neglect or exploitation and who may be
further threatened by the conduct of others by providing for the reporting of suspected
cases of abuse, exploitation or neglect of children; by providing for the investigation
of such complaints; and by providing, if necessary for the resolution of child in
need of care proceedings in the courts. This Title is intended to provide the greatest
possible protection as promptly as possible for such children. Article 603 of this Title
states that a mandatory reporter is any of the following individuals performing their occupational
duties; health practitioner, mental health/social services practitioner and
teaching or childcare provider. The latter is any person who provides training and supervision
of a child, including any public or private teacher, teacher’s aide, instructional
aide, school principal, school staff member, social worker, probation officer, foster
home parent, group home or other child care institutional staff member, personnel
or residential home facilities, a licensed or unlicensed day care provider, or any individual
who provides such services to a child.
Head Start Team Leaders and Team Assistants shall be diligent in observing the
children for any signs of physical abuse, sexual abuse or neglect. This Statute require
that Head Start Staff only need to suspect that abuse or neglect is a possibility, definitive
proof is not required. All reporters are granted complete confidentiality.
The Head Start Staff is to follow the procedures listed below when reporting is
intended:
ADVISE the Principal or his/her designee that you are going to report. This
means you must tell the principal what you suspect and that you are going to call the
Child Protection Agency.
IMMEDIATELY report the suspected abuse to the Office of Community Services,
Child Protection. The direct line is (504) 393-5830. You will speak with Ms. Denise Evans,
Head of Child Protection. You may also call 504-393-5830 ext 142. It is the responsibility
of the State Protection Agency to determine if the report is acceptable and to
investigate all acceptable reports. Incidents of suspected abuse are to be reported
each time it is suspected.
ADVISE the Head Start Director or his designee that you reported an incident of
suspected abuse.
A VERBAL report should be followed up by a written report within 5 days. This
written report should be signed, dated and sent directly to the Child Protection
Agency. A copy of this form should be sent to the Head Start Director or his designee.
The form for this report can be found in the child abuse and neglect reporting file at
each site or in the Head Start Staff Handbook. The completed written report shall be
kept in the confidential file of the child’s folder at the Central Office.
28 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Appendix E
Plaquemines Parish Head Start Policies and Procedures for Attendance
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
When the monthly average daily attendance rate in a center-based program falls below
85 percent, Head Start staff will analyze the causes of absenteeism. This analysis
will include a study of the pattern of absences for each child, including the reasons for
absences as well as the number of absences that occur on consecutive days. This
analysis will be shared with the Director and the Policy Council for appropriate action.
If the absences are a result of illness, or if they are well documented absences for
other reasons, no special action is required. If however, the absences result from other
factors, including temporary family problems, that affect a child’s regular attendance,
Head Start Staff will initiate appropriate family support procedures. If this becomes
necessary, the Social Worker or Parent Involvement Specialist with the Disabilities Coordinator
will make contact with the family by phone or by a home visit. This contact will
emphasize the benefits of regular attendance. The Family Partnership Plan will be updated
to include provisions to insure that the child is able to attend on a regular basis.
All contacts and referrals will be documented and kept on file by the Parent Involvement
Specialist.
Center staff will send the name of any child who missed four (4) consecutive days to
the Parent Involvement Specialist. If known, the staff will include the reason or reasons
for these absences. The Parent Involvement Specialist will investigate any absences
where there is no apparent reason for the child being absent. The Parent Involvement
Specialist will complete a monthly report showing all children at each center, who
have excessive absences and the steps being taken to correct the problem. A copy
of this report will be given to the Director, and will be kept on file in the Head Start office.
In circumstances where chronic absenteeism persists, the child’s slot is considered an
enrollment vacancy. The following guidelines will be used to define chronic absenteeism.
Four-Year-Old Students—a child may not miss above ten (10) days in any one
semester for any reason.
Three-Year-Old Students---a child may not miss above fifteen (15) days in any
one semester for any reason.
The center staff will send the name or names of any children to the Parent Involvement
Specialist, who misses over the days allowed as stated above. This will occur on the
first day that the child is above the minimum days allowed. The Parent Involvement
Specialist will consider all extenuating circumstances. This will include illness, death in
the family, and illness of the primary parent, extraordinary family circumstances, and
other factors that might impact the family’s ability to send the child to school. The Parent
Involvement Specialist will determine if a vacancy should be declared. A written
report containing all pertinent information will be given to the Director. The Director,
after reviewing the report, will declare a vacancy or will direct the Parent Involvement
Specialist to develop a family plan to attempt to end unnecessary days absent
29 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Appendix F
Plaquemines Parish Head Start Grievance Policy
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Please contact our Head Start Office any time you have questions or concerns about our program
and we will do our best to assist you.
Head Start follows all Plaquemines Parish School Board Policies and Procedures unless they
conflict with Head Start Performance Standards. The PPSB Grievance Procedure is on the 5
following pages followed by the PPSS GR-01 Grievance Form.
The purpose of a grievance policy is to seek settlement of any disputes at the lowest level possible.
Every effort will be made by the instructional staff and office staff to work with parents to
resolve disputes at the level in which they occur. We would appreciate if parents or staff would
call the Head Start Office and discuss problems and concerns prior to initiating grievance procedures
to determine if the problem can be resolved by Head Start Office Staff.
In the Preliminary Action, on page 31, the “appropriate administrator” would be the Head Start
Director and/or the School Principal. At Level 1, on page 31, the “appropriate school official”
would also be the Head Start Director and/or the School Principal. At Level 2, on page 31, the
“appropriate administrative officer” would be the Director of Elementary Education. The superintendent
is Level 3 and the School Board is Level 4.
Head Start has a Policy Council and a Regional Program Specialist in Dallas. The Head Start
Office in Dallas and the Plaquemines Parish Administrative Staff and Superintendent expect
our Head Start Office Staff to attempt to resolve concerns, problems, and complaints within our
department prior to contacting them.
Anytime after Level 1, if Head Start staff or parents are not satisfied, they may request to present
their complaint at the next scheduled Policy Council Meeting. Anytime after completing
Level 1, if Head Start staff or parents are not satisfied, have questions, or want advice they may
contact the Dallas Regional Head Start Office. When calling the Dallas Regional Office request
to speak to the Program Specialist for the Plaquemines Parish Head Start Program.
Phone Numbers/Addresses:
Head Start Director: 504-595-6392
Head Start Office Main Line: 504-595-6430
Principals: BCPS 595-6620, SPES 595-6415, BVES 595-6455, PHS 595-6480
Director of Elementary Education and Superintendent: 504-595-6400 or 504-392-4970
Address for all PPSB Administrators: P.O. Box 69, Belle Chasse, LA 70037
Head Start Region VI Office: (214) 767-9648; 1301 Young St. Dallas, TX 75202
30 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

COMPLAINTS AND GRIEVANCE
Any employee, parent, or student shall have the right to appeal the application of poli-
cies and administrative decisions affecting him/her. A person making a grievance shall be as-
sured freedom from restraint, interference, coercion, discrimination, or reprisal in presenting
his/her appeal with respect to a personal grievance.
PURPOSE:
To provide an orderly process at the lowest possible level for the resolution of com-
plaints and concerns.
DEFINITIONS:
A grievance is a claim by an employee, parent, or student, or group that has suffered
harm or injury by the interpretation, application, or violation of a contract, a
school board policy, a law or constitutionally guaranteed rights. The term
“grievance” does not include matters for which the method of review is prescribed
by law or where the school board is without authority to act.
Employees covered by this procedure shall mean permanent employees of the board.
Immediate supervisor is that employee possessing administrative authority to direct the
activities of the grievant.
The grievant is the employee, parent, student, or group claiming harm or injury.
Working day is a day in which the grievant is scheduled to work.
A party in interest is a person who might be required to take action or against whom action
might be taken in order to resolve a grievance.
PROCEDURES:
All grievances shall be handled expeditiously and according to the policy of the Plaquemines
Parish School Board. The number of days indicated at each level is a maximum.
The grievant may withdraw his/her grievance at any level.
No reprisals of any kind will be taken or tolerated against any employee, parent, or student
because he or she has filed or advanced a grievance under this policy.
PRELIMINARY ACTION:
The aggrieved person(s) shall discuss the problem with the school employee who is the
31 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

focus of the dispute. A meeting with the party in interest must be arranged through the appropriate
administrator. The nature of the complaint is to be given to the party in interest prior to the
meeting. Though this meeting precedes the actual filing of a grievance, it is necessary to complete
before going to LEVEL 1.
No formal grievance is filed prior to this preliminary action in the hopes of an agreeable
settlement.
Preliminary action must be initiated within ten (10) working days of the incident causing
the grievance.
LEVEL 1:
If the grievant is not satisfied with the preliminary action, within five (5) working days
of the preliminary action, the grievant may submit a completed Plaquemines Parish School System
Grievance Form PPSSGr-01 to the appropriate school official. The written grievance shall
state the nature of the grievance and the harm or injury caused that initiated the grievance. The
grievant must state what law, policy, or procedure is involved and has been violated and how
the complaint can be resolved.
The school official will hold a conference within five (5) working days of the receipt of
the written grievance. The grievant and the school official shall attempt to resolve the grievance.
The school official will make a decision within five (5) working days of the meeting. If
the grievant is not satisfied with the decision, he or she may appeal, within five (5) working
days, in writing, to the next administrative officer of higher rank. If the grievance is not advanced
to LEVEL 2 within the allotted five days, the matter will be considered resolved, and
the grievant shall have no further right with respect to the grievance.
LEVEL 2:
In the event the grievant wishes to appeal the decision at LEVEL 1, the written appeal
shall contain a statement of the grievance and specific references to the action taken causing the
grievance. The appropriate administrative officer shall conduct a conference as promptly as reasonably
possible to attempt to resolve the grievance. Notice of the conference shall be given to
all parties involved in an alleged grievance. The administrative officer shall issue a written decision
to the grievant within five (5) working days after the conference. If the grievant is not satisfied
with the LEVEL 2 decision, he or she may appeal, in writing, to the superintendent. The
appeal must be submitted within five (5) working days of the decision. If no appeal is made, the
grievance shall be deemed settled and the grievant shall have no further right with respect to
said grievance.
LEVEL 3:
The written appeal shall be submitted along with the LEVEL 1 and LEVEL 2 decisions
to the superintendent. Upon receipt of such a written appeal, the superintendent or his designee
shall conduct a full hearing within ten (10) working days and maintain a transcript of the pro-
32 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

ceedings. Within ten (10) working days of the full hearing, the superintendent shall issue a written
decision to the grievant. If the grievant is not satisfied with the superintendent’s decision, he
or she may appeal the decision to the school board within five (5) working days of the date on
the superintendent’s written response. The grievant shall submit a written request for a board
hearing to the president of the board, with a copy sent to the superintendent. If the grievance is
not appealed to the school board within five (5) days of the date of the superintendent’s written
response, the matter will be considered resolved, and the grievant shall have no further right
with respect to said grievance.
LEVEL 4:
Upon receipt of an appeal, the school board may agree by majority vote to review the
grievance. If the board decides to review the grievance, its decision shall be final. If the board
declines to review the grievance, the decision made at LEVEL 3 will be final.
GUIDELINES FOR THE GRIEVANCE PROCESS:
1. Grievance forms should be completed concisely with a specific explanation of the complaint
given, including what law, policy, or procedure is involved and has been violated, and how
the complaint can be resolved. This phase of the grievance is most important. If a grievant
cannot demonstrate that there has been a violation, the grievance shall be eliminated from
further consideration. Administrative officials, in their decisions, should address the issue
and its application to the law, policy, or procedures which may be violated, and provide reasons
for their decisions.
2. All grievance hearings shall be held in private unless both parties agree to a public hearing.
3. Appeals of grievance decisions will be limited to the specific issues raised in the original
grievance. No additional charges may be added to the original complaint.
4. Failure by a grievant to meet the timelines and requirements of this procedure shall result in
dismissal of the grievance. Failure by the administrative person rendering the decision to
meet timelines and requirements of this procedure shall allow the grievant, at his option, to
proceed to the next level of appeal.
5. Decisions rendered at any administrative level shall be binding until and unless an appeal is
made.
6. Copies of all written decisions of grievances shall be sent to all parties involved.
7. All documents, communications, or records dealing with a grievance shall be made part of
the grievant’s files and shall be destroyed only in accordance with board policy.
8. An employee who has charges filed against him/her by the employer shall not file a grievance
against the employer until the original charge has been resolved.
9. If the employee leaves the employment of the board during the pendency, at any level, of a
complaint or grievance, then the employee loses the right to continue the complaint process.
33 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

10. At LEVELS 2, 3, and 4:
A. Any documentation to be presented at a hearing must be made available to all parties at
least 2 days prior to the hearing. Failure to comply will eliminate such documentation from being
presented at the hearing.
B. Representation for either or both parties shall be allowed in a grievance hearing at LEV-
ELS 2, 3, and 4. Names of representatives and/or witnesses shall be submitted in writing to the
appropriate administrative officer at least 2 days prior to the hearing. Failure to notify within
this time frame will prevent representatives and/or witnesses from appearing on behalf of that
party.
C. Testimony of witnesses for either party shall address the issue of the filed grievance
only; furthermore, such testimony shall be limited at the hearing officer’s discretion. All hearings
shall be limited to one hour, or as may be extended by the hearing officer.
11. During a full hearing, recording devices may be used, with proper notification.
Ref: La. Rev. Stat. §17:100.4
Adopted by: Plaquemines Parish School Board: September 10, 2001
34 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

PLAQUEMINES PARISH SCHOOL SYSTEM
GRIEVANCE FORM - PPSS GR-01
AGGRIEVED PARTY:__________________ DATE FILED with OFFICIAL:________________
GRIEVANCE FOR LEVEL ______ Date of Preliminary Action Taken:_________________
1. DESCRIPTION OF COMPLAINT IN DETAIL AGAINST _______________________:
(Include law, policy, or procedure involved in this complaint)
____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
2. STATE HOW COMPLAINT CAN BE RESOLVED TO YOUR SATISFACTION:
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________ ________________
Signature of Aggrieved Person Date
Address: ______________________________________________________ Phone _____
Street or Box No. City State ZIP
3. DECISION OF OFFICIAL and REASON IN DETAIL:
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________ _______________
Signature of Official Date
4. RESOLUTION OF GRIEVANCE: Aggrieved party is to initial the appropriate blank below
for this grievance level within five (5) days of receipt of the decision and set up an
appointment immediately with official at next step, if applicable.
Date must be completed below:
_____________ Complaint Satisfied – no further level requested. Date:
___________
_____________ Not Satisfied – next Level requested. Date: _________________
CHECK LEVEL BELOW TO WHICH YOU WISH TO APPEAL, IF APPLICABLE:
4A. LEVEL
L1 - SCHOOL OFFICIAL Date _____________________
L2 - ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER Date _____________________
35 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Appendix G
Plaquemines Parish Head Start
Confidentiality Policies and Procedures
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Plaquemines Parish Head Start is committed to the maintenance and security
of children’s records. All Head Start personnel will receive training in the proper
method of collecting, filing, and maintaining information on children and families.
Head Start staff will also receive training on the confidentiality and security
of all Head Start records.
Plaquemines Parish head Start will maintain two sets of records on each child
enrolled in the program. One set will be kept in a locked file in the Head Start
Office. The other set will be kept in a locked file cabinet at the individual center.
Center staff will have the key to the locked cabinet available at all times.
Each cabinet will be labeled with a list of personnel who will have access to the
files. This list will include, but not be limited to the following: Head Start Staff,
School Principal, School Counselors, Special Education Pupil Appraisal Staff,
School Nurses, and authorized representatives of state and federal agencies,
whose duty it is to review our program.
Parents will be informed that they may have access to their child’s records.
Any authorized person who reviews a file, must complete and sign a form indicating
the date, their name, their title, and the reason for reviewing the file.
Plaquemines Parish Head Start staff will be instructed to the fact that any disclosure
of information about the children or families in our program, or knowingly
to permit said disclosure, to any unauthorized person will be grounds for dismissal.
36 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Appendix H
Plaquemines Parish Head Start
Policies and Procedures for Photographing and Videotaping
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Throughout the school year, Plaquemines Parish Head Start will photograph
and/or videotape children in the classrooms, on the playground, and during
field trips.
When completing the recruitment packet parents sign a consent form giving
Head Start permission to photograph/videotape their child. All consent forms
are explained to parents by a Head Start Office staff member who signs and
dates the consent. This signed form is included in the child’s file.
Photographs and videotapes will be used in the following manner:
1. To display in the classroom for educational purposes and self-esteem building
activities.
2. As part of the students Developmental Continuum observations or portfolios.
3. For the educational training and development of Head Start Staff, Preschool
Staff, parents, and volunteers.
4. For publication in Head Start Newsletters.
5. For publication in the newspaper for promotion of the Head Start program.
6. For use in professional and educational presentations at preschool and early
childhood conferences.
7. No identifying information, such as, names or addresses will be used.
Parents may revoke their permission/consent to photograph or videotape their
child at any time by submitting a request in writing to the Head Start Office. If a
parent revokes permission the letter will be attached to the consent form in the
child’s file.
Instructional staff will notify anyone photographing or videotaping the classroom
which children do not have permission to be photographed.
37 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Appendix I
Plaquemines Parish Head Start Policy on
Illegal Use of Alcohol, Tobacco, Illegal Substances, Firearms
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Plaquemines Parish Head Start Centers are located in classrooms on the campuses of
Plaquemines Parish Public Schools.
Plaquemines Parish Public Schools are Drug Free Zones.
Plaquemines Parish Public Schools are Tobacco Free Zones.
Alcoholic beverages may not be sold or consumed on school grounds.
Firearms are prohibited from school campuses and the immediate vicinity.
All Plaquemines Parish Head Start Centers prohibit the use of alcohol and the use or
possession of illegal substances or unauthorized potentially toxic substances, firearms,
pellet or BB guns in the center, on the playground, oron field trips.
All Plaquemines Parish Head Start Centers prohibit the use of tobacco in any form in
the Centers, on the playground, or on any center-sponsored field trip or activity.
Gambling in any form is prohibited at centers or center activities.
Appendix J
Plaquemines Parish Head Start Expulsion Policy
…………………………………………………………………………………………………
The underlying philosophy of Head Start is to meet the individual needs of all
children enrolled in the program. Every effort will be made to work with the child and
the family to avoid the expulsion of any child in Head Start.
Plaquemines Parish Head Start is a part of the Plaquemines Parish Public School
System. As such, we conform to policies established by the Plaquemines Parish School
board on mandatory expulsion of students in the system. Our school system requires
that any child who brings or is in possession of a firearm or edged weapon be expelled
from school.
The only other time expulsion will be considered is the rare instance where a
child poses a danger to himself/herself, other children, or staff. Prior to consideration
of expulsion every effort will be made to modify curriculum, schedules, and staffing ratios.
Prior to expulsion a behavior plan must be developed and implemented, referrals
must be made to the social worker or outside agencies and to the special education
department.
The Plaquemines Parish Head Start Policy Council must approve the expulsion of
any child. Parents will be informed in writing that they have the right to meet with the
Policy Council before any final decision is made. If a child is expelled from the program,
the parents will be informed in writing that they have the right to appeal the expulsion
to the Plaquemines Parish School board.
38 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Plaquemines Parish Head Start
Parent Orientation Checklist/Disclosure Form
Important Items in the Parent Orientation Book
1. Three year olds are NOT allowed to ride buses. When students turn 4, prior to riding the
bus they must have updated immunization records and arrangements for a seat on the Head
Start bus must be completed. We have a hand-to hand policy for bus and car riders.
2. Parents are encouraged to have their child’s immunizations updated on their 4 th birthday.
3. Head Start schedules 2 home visits and 2 school visits (parent conferences) during the
year.
4. Parents are invited to a cooking activity and parent meeting once per month. Please try
to arrange your schedule so that you can attend as many as possible.
5. Parents are invited to volunteer in the classroom at any time. All volunteers should sign
in and indicate the times in and out.
6. Do not post any photos taken at Head Start functions on social media sites (facebook,
twitter, youtube, etc. This violates confidentiality.
7. Children who are sick are not allowed to come to school. Students who have head lice
are not allowed to return until they are nit free.
8. Please inform your child’s teachers if your child is allergic to anything.
9. Students will not be released from school to anyone not listed on the child’s Master
Card. Master Card changes must be done in person.
10. I have attended an orientation in which the educational program and the Policies and Procedures
of Plaquemines Parish Head Start were presented. I received a written copy of the Plaquemines Parish
Head Start Parent Handbook containing the policies and procedures of Plaquemines Parish Head
Start and a list of community resources.
I give Plaquemines Parish Head Start permission to care for my child during the time he/she is
in the center or on center sponsored activities. When applicable, I give PPSB permission to transport
my child to and from the Head Start Center and on field trips. I understand that my child must be 4
years old to ride the school bus.
At recruitment, I signed emergency medical and dental forms. I understand that these forms
give permission to Plaquemines Parish Head Start to transport my child to the nearest medical facility
in a vehicle of their choosing in the event of a medical emergency.
I have provided Plaquemines Parish Head Start with all of the information that will enable the
staff to meet the needs of my child.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Student’s Name Date
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Parent’s Signature Date
After a consultation with the parents and a review of all records it is my opinion that our program will meet the needs of this
child.
________________________________________________________________________________________
Director’s Signature Date
39 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook
Initials

August: Parent Survey
Please fill out this survey so that our Head Start
Program can best meet the needs of your child and
your family.
1. Would you be willing to serve on a Parent Committee? YES NO
If so circle the committee you would be interested in serving on:
Health Advisory Committee Education Advisory Committee
Fatherhood Club Head Start Self-Assessment Committee
2. Circle the Training Topics you would like Head Start to offer:
Literacy Childhood Obesity/Nutrition Discipline Transitions
Hurricane Preparedness Stress Management Money Management
Job Search/Career Planning First Aid/CPR Other: _________________
3. Circle the best time for you to attend meetings or training sessions:
First thing in the morning During the school day
Immediately after school In the evening
4. Head Start classes plan cooking activities once a week. How many times per month could
you join your child’s class for a cooking activity?
Times per month: _______________
5. How many hours per day does your child watch TV without an adult? _________
6. How many hours per day does your child watch TV with an adult? ___________
7. How many times per month do you read a book to your child? ____________
8. What is your child’s favorite toy? ____________________________________
9. Was this Parent Orientation:
Excellent Good Fair Poor
How could we improve Parent Orientation? ______________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
40 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Dear Parents
SCREENINGS, HOME VISITS, &
FAMILY PARTNERSHIPS
Head Start will schedule 2 Home Visits and 1 Family
Partnership Agreement with every Head Start Family.
Every Head Start Child must have a developmental screening completed within the first 45 days
of school. There will be no school for Head Start students on August 30th and August 31st for
DIAL-3 screening appointments. Your child’s teachers will schedule a time for you to bring
your child in for his/her screening. Please come to this screening with your child. While your
child is being screened you will need to fill out the parent questionnaire that goes with the
screening.
Head Start Performance Standards require that we make every effort to conduct 2 Home Visits
and 2 School Visits with each child’s family. School visits occur on PPSB Parent Conference
Days. Home Visits occur on the half days and in April. Home visits may NOT be held at
school. Missed Home visits will be rescheduled on the half days during exams. Your child’s
teacher will schedule a date and time for your Home Visit . Refusal of Home Visits will result
in a residency check by PPSB. We only serve residents of Plaquemines Parish.
We are also required to have Family Partnership Agreements with each Head Start Family.
Family Partnership Agreements can be done during home visits, school visits, on screening
days, or any date you can schedule to meet with our Parent Involvement Specialist, Vera
Manuel, at your child’s school or in our office. Parent Involvement is a key indicator of academic
success for children. Please be involved and attend scheduled appoint-
HEALTH BOOKLETS AND
AGES & STAGES QUESTIONAIRES
HEALTH AND MENTAL HEALTH
COMPONENTS OF HEAD START
Health and nutrition is an important part of a child’s Head Start experience. Each child in the
Head Start program must have a Health Booklet on file.
Mental Health Services and Family Support Services are included in the Head Start program. A
child’s Social-Emotional skills affect their ability to function in school. All parents are being
asked to complete an Ages & Stages Questionnaire on their child.
All families are strongly encouraged to take part in the Family Partnership Agreement Process.
Head Start Office Staff are available to assist parents in completing required documents.
Please call to schedule a meeting during DIAL-3 screenings or at the Head Start Office. Contact
William Autmon at 595-6393 or Vera Manuel at 595-6391 to schedule an appointment.
41 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Dear Parent
Plaquemines Parish Head Start
P.O. Box 69
Belle Chasse, LA 70037
Phone: 504-595-6430
If you have decided that you do not want your child to attend Head Start this year or are moving
and need to drop your child from Head Start, please complete the form below and return it to
the Head Start Office.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Parent’s Name: _____________________________
Child’s Name: ______________________________
Head Start Center: __________________________
I, ________________________________, have decided not to place my child in
(parent’s name)
the Head Start Program this year or wish for my child to be dropped from Head
Start. Please withdraw my child’s application. I realize that my child’s slot will be
filled by another child on the waiting list. If in the future I change my mind and
want __________________________________________________________
(child’s name)
placed in the Head Start Program I realize I will need to reapply and my child will
be placed on the waiting list.
Parent’s Signature: ___________________________________
Date: ______________________
42 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

Late Pick Up Notification
Parents must pick children up from school on time. Our teachers only
planning time is at the beginning and end of the day. Failure to pick
your child up on time is a form of neglect—abandonment.
Late Pick-up Procedures
The first and second time a child is late the parent will be called and reminded of the school
hours. If the parent can’t be reached emergency contacts listed will be called. After 3 late pickups,
the teacher will complete a Head Start Referral form referring the family to Vera Manuel,
our Parent Involvement Specialist. The parent will be required to come in to meet with Ms.
Manuel to work on a plan of action to correct the situation. If an additional late pick up occurs
child attendance and welfare officials at the school level will be informed. At this point Head
Start will recommend reporting the child to FINS or OFS for neglect and abandonment.
The section circled below indicates your current level in the late pick-up procedure:
DATE: STAFF MEMBER: __________________________________
Level 1: Your child, ______________________________, has been picked up
late 3 times. A Head Start Referral form has been sent to Mrs. Manuel. She will
be calling to schedule a meeting with you to devise a plan with you so that you
can pick your child up at the designated time.
Level 2: Your child, _______________________________, has been picked up
late a fourth time. School attendance and welfare staff have been notified. We
will notify you as to what plan of action they recommend.
Level 3: Your child, _______________________________, has been picked up
late a fifth time. If you fail to pick up your child on time again we will contact
OCS and report it as neglect and abandonment.
__________________________________________________
Janel Mumme, Head Start Director
43 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

PLAQUEMINES PARISH GOVERNMENT
OFFICE OF EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS (OEP)
8056 Hwy 23, Suite 200
Belle Chasse, LA 70037
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 am-4:30 pm
(504) 274-2477
Fax: (504) 274-2463
www.plaqueminesparish.com
OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM
104 New Orleans St
Belle Chasse, LA 70037
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 am-4:30 pm
(504) 394-0088
1-800-745-0642
www.plaqueminestourism.com
COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY
479 F Edward Hebert Blvd
Post Office Box 399
Belle Chasse, LA 70037
Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00am – 3:30 pm
(504) 392-9567
Fax: (504) 392-2380
www.plaqueminesparish.com/departments.php#departments_30
Primary Contact: Othella Hughes, Superintendent
ppcaa@bellsouth.net
HEALTH SERVICES
HEALTH DEPARTMENT
3706 Main Street
Belle Chasse, LA 70037
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:00 pm
44 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

SEEDCO FINANCIAL & SOUTHEAST LOUISIANA
FISHERIES ASSISTANCE CENTER (FAC)
*serve age 18 and up
212 Avenue G
Belle Chasse, LA 70037
Hours: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
SEEDCO (504) 392-2454
FAC (504) 392-2455 or (504) 520-5727
Fax: SEEDCO (504) 392 2456
www.seedcofinancial.org -- SEEDCO
www.seedcofinancial.org/fisheries --FAC
SMALL BUSINESS ADMINSTRATION (SBA)
*serve age 18 and up
1-800-659-2955
Fax: (504) 392-2456
www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance/index.html
LOCATION AND HOURS OF OPERATION
Southeast Louisiana Fisheries Assistance Center
212 Avenue G
Belle Chasse, LA 70037
(504) 392-2455
Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
St. Patrick’s Church Family Life Center
28698 Hwy 23
Port Sulphur, LA 70083
Monday – Friday 9am-5pm
Venice Boat Harbor Office
Tiger Pass Road
Venice, LA 70091
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
45 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

CATHOLIC CHARITIES
1000 Howard Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70113
Monday – Friday 8am- 5pm
(504) 523-3755
1-866-891-2210
Fax: (504) 523-2789
www.ccano.org
Primary Contact: Colleen D’Aquin Basley
Regional Director of Preparedness and Response
(504) 310-8767
DISTRIBUTION LOCATIONS:
(assistance with baby supplies offered at all the following)
Port Sulphur, LA
9am-2pm
St. Patrick’s Catholic Church
28698 Hwy 23
Port Sulphur, LA 70083
Pointe a la Hache, LA
9am – 4pm
St. Thomas Catholic Church
17605 Hwy 15
Pointe a la Hache, LA 70082
New Orleans, LA
9am – 4pm
Mary, Queen of Vietnam Community
Development Corporation
4626 Alcee Fortier Blvd
New Orleans, LA 70129
SOCIAL SERVICES
46 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICE
627 North Fourth Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
(225) 342-0286
Child Support: 1-800-256-4650
Cash Assistance: 1-888-524-3578
JP Morgan Chase: 1-866-795-5927
Fax: 225-342-8636
www.carefacility.dss.louisiana.gov
Primary Contact: Colleen D’Aquin Basley
Regional Director of Preparedness and Response
(504) 310-8767
Port Sulphur, LA
9am-1pm
St. Patrick’s Catholic Church
28698 Hwy 23
Port Sulphur, LA 70083
Pointe a la Hache, LA
1m – 5pm
St. Thomas Catholic Church
ST. BERNARD BATTERED WOMEN’S PROGRAM
(504) 277-3177 (24/7 Hotline)
(504) 275-6336 (Plaquemines)
Fax: (504) 279-9377
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week
www.deanobwp.org
UNITED WAY
*see Catholic Charities, Community Action Agency for information regarding
Primary Contacts and Distribution Locations and Hours.
CRESCENT CITY WIC SERVICES
(504) 247-0592
Fax: 391-3679
Primary Contact: Mary Schultheis, Director
47 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

DISTRIBUTION LOCATIONS:
Belle Chasse, LA (Tuesday and Thursday)
Plaquemines Parish Health Department
3706 Main Street
Belle Chasse, LA 70037
Boothville, LA
District 9 Council Office
112 Gille Lane
Boothville, LA 70038
Davant, LA (3 rd Friday each month)
Davant Community Center
15535 Hwy 15
Davant, LA 70046
Gretna, LA
429 Wall Blvd
Gretna, LA 70056
Port Sulphur, LA (1 st Friday each month)
Plaquemines Medical Center
26851 Hwy 23
Port Sulphur, LA 70083
SECOND HARVEST
Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4pm
(504) 734-1322
Fax: (504) 733-8336
www.no-hunger.org
Empire, LA
Pilgrim Rest
33800 John Riley Road
Empire, La 70041
Hours: Thursday 12:30 pm – 5:00 pm
(504) 394-1123
Contact: Betty Riley or Lydia Mitchell
Belle Chasse, LA
Plaquemines Parish Community Action
479 F Edward Hebert Blvd
Belle Chasse, LA 70037
Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00am – 3:00 pm
(504) 392-9567
Contact: Othella Hughes
48 Port Sulphur, LA
Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook

PHYSICIANS
(Pediatrics)
Pediatric Clinic
Dr. Grace Banuchi
Dr. Surbhi Dargan
Dr. K. G. Thaly
151 Meadowcrest St
Gretna, LA 70056
(504) 392-9298
Fax: (504) 392-7047
Dr. Harish Anand
Dr. Sharma
Dr. Burbank
120 Meadowcrest St
Gretna, LA 70056
(504) 391-7690
Fax: (504) 391-7625
Children’s Clinic
Dr. J. M. Fortino
1301 Whitney Ave
Terrytown, La 70056
(504) 367-8777
Fax: (504) 367-0133
Pediatrics & Adolescent Care
Dr. Truyen Vu
3709 Westbank Expressway
Harvey, LA
(504) 348-2310
Fax: (504) 348-1942
49 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook
Westside Clinic
KidWest (Medicaid Patients)
Dr. Douglass Bostick
Dr. Donald McArthur
Dr. Weber
Dr. Leone
Dr. Vigour
Dr. Melendez
Dr. Brent Nick
Dr. Watts
Dr. Ruda
Dr. Gates
7017 Lapalco Blvd
Marrero, LA 70072
(504) 391-7337
Fax: (504) 398-7236
Kids First
Dr. Roselyn St. Etienne
Dr. Stephanie Arnold
829 Barataria Blvd
Marrero, LA 70072
(504) 368-7337
Fax: (504) 368-7376
*appointment only

PHYSICIANS (Ears, Eyes, Nose, & Throat)
Eye Associates of West Jefferson
Joseph Guarnieri, MD
1111 Medical Center Blvd
North Tower Suite 213
Marrero, LA 70072
(504) 349-6213
Fax: (504) 328-1680
(504) 347-8434
Fax: (504) 347-9868
*ONLY with referral from primary
DENTISTS
Bippo’s Place for Smiles
Edward Donaldson
3501 Behrman Place
New Orleans, LA
(504) 368-1990
Fax: (504) 366-2319
Today’s Dental
Dimetry Cossich
2817 Manhattan Blvd
Harvey, LA
(504) 361-5333
Fax: (504) 361-5322
Audrey Baudean
2446 Barataria Blvd
(504) 347-1015
Fax: (504) 341-8867
50 Plaquemines Parish Head Start Parent Handbook
Eye Care Center
Joseph C. Thompson, MD
Cary J. Vincent, OD
608 Terry Parkway
Terrytown, LA 70056
(504) 361-3937
Fax: (504) 364-5700
Earl J. Sonnier, MD*
4601 Wichers Drive
Marrero, LA 70072
Frederick Gruezke
1705 Lapalco Blvd
Harvey, LA
(504) 361-3697
Fax: (504) 362-3662
Diem Do
5220 Lapalco Blvd
Marrero, LA 70072
(504) 340-9400
Fax: (504) 340-9482
Ivonne Castro
8000 Belle Chasse Hwy
Belle Chasse, LA 70037
(504) 391-0000
Fax: (504) 391-3737
Jason Parker*
2800 Manhattan Blvd
Harvey, LA
(504) 831-2120