McHenry County Head Start serving children, families for 50 years

Head Start in McHenry County announces contracting with Alma Wright as executive director to lead the agency into its 50th year, serving 267 children and their families.

RB Thompson, board president, said, "Alma has a strong educational background including degrees in education and finance. She speaks several languages, has past experience working for DCFS, School District 200 and 20 years at Head Start, 15 of those years in management. She is a definite asset to the agency."

Brian Fowler, board treasurer, said, "Financially we are stable with a tight federal grant running through 2019."

This fall, they are opening a new center on the south side of Crystal Lake. They also are looking to rent additional space in a school, church or day care center in Cary. Early Head Start is a consideration for the future.

The challenges include hiring with Head Start budget limits. It takes a dedicated person with a desire to help children and families in our communities. The work is rewarding and beneficial experience can be gained working for Head Start which is in the forefront of early childhood education.

"We are looking to expand our community representation on our board of directors and policy council," Thompson added. "We are looking for people with backgrounds in early childhood education and pediatric health as well as community business representatives."

For information on enrollment, employment, or volunteering, call (815) 338-8790.