PRESQUE ISLE and MADAWASKA, Maine — Aroostook County Action Program Early Care and Education staff, along with a parent of an enrolled child, recently participated in the annual Head Start Goes to Augusta event at the Maine State House.
Families of children enrolled in Head Start Programs from across the state were invited to tour the State House, meet legislators, learn about the legislative process, observe a legislative session and learn about advocacy. Those attending learned more about how the Maine government conducts business, and the importance of advocacy efforts for programs like Head Start.
“This is a great event for our Early Care and Education parent and parents from across the state,” said Amy Murchison, ACAP program supervisor in Presque Isle. “For parents to meet state senators and representatives where they conduct their day-to-day activities in Augusta is a wonderful learning and networking opportunity.”
Families also had the opportunity to observe and be recognized by both the House of Representatives and Senate during their sessions, as well as participate in a mock hearing and tour the Maine State Museum.
“ACAP Early Care and Education was pleased to have a Parent Policy Council member attend this year’s event,” said Murchison. “Kelsey Dionne of Madawaska enjoyed her visit to Augusta.”
“It was truly a great experience. Visiting Augusta is something done throughout school years, but having the opportunity to do it now as an adult gives me a better understanding and I have even more interest in state government,” Dionne said.
“Not only did this experience allow me the opportunity to see our State House, meet and interact with legislators, but I had the opportunity to explain the benefits of child development received through Head Start. It also allowed me to become comfortable with stepping out of my comfort zone and having the opportunity to make a benefiting difference.”
