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AUGUSTA — Two families, one from Presque Isle and one from Houlton, headed south recently for the annual Head Start Goes to Augusta event.
Families with children enrolled in Head Start programs from across the state were invited to the Statehouse to meet legislators, tour the building, learn about the legislative process and observe a mock hearing.
Acap officials said it was a terrific learning experience for moms, dads and children, as those who participated learned more about how the government conducts business and also the importance of advocacy efforts for programs like Head Start.
“This is a great event for our Head Start families,” said Amy Murchison, ACAP Family Engagement Specialist. “For them to meet our Aroostook County state senators and representatives where they conduct their day-to-day activities in Augusta is a wonderful learning opportunity for our children and parents.”
Families also had the opportunity to tour the Maine State Museum and enjoy part of the day exploring the state’s history and heritage.
“ACAP Head Start was pleased to have two families from Aroostook County attend this year’s event,” said Murchison. “The King family from Houlton and the Golden family from Presque Isle both enjoyed their visit to Augusta.”
Head Start is committed to providing educational opportunities for its families. While the Augusta event is the highlight of the year, our teachers and staff conduct regular outings and get-togethers with our families to provide social connectedness, encourage peer support and more.
ACAP Early Care and Education Centers in Aroostook County provide Early Head Start, Head Start and child care services for approximately 300 children ages 0-5 each day.
“Due to the excellent reputation of our Early Head Start and Head Start programs — we are recognized as a model program in the state of Maine — we are known for the academic excellence of our young students,” said Murchison.
“That success is due not only to the high standards we place on curriculum but also on the physical, social and emotional development of each child.”
