The University of Alabama at Birmingham Early Head Start Program (UAB EHSP) is based on the program operation cornerstones outlined in the Head Start Program Performance Standards to promote school readiness of enrolled children through:
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education and child development,
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health, and
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family and community engagement.
The UAB EHSP uses these cornerstones as the foundation for providing high quality, comprehensive services to infants, toddlers and pregnant women. The overarching goal of the UAB EHSP is to provide the highest quality early learning experiences (school readiness) and child health services to infants and toddlers who live in high-risk environments. In order for these services to be maximally effective, family and community engagement services are provided to empower the families to focus on providing high quality early learning experiences for their children, enhancing family strengths, as well as addressing family needs.
Mission: The mission of the University of Alabama at Birmingham Early Head Start Program (UAB EHSP) is to form partnerships with families to support child development and family goals. Through continuous training and professional development and in collaboration with the community, we strive to enhance opportunities for children and families.
Established: The UAB EHSP was funded in 1998 to serve 88 infants and toddlers and their families or pregnant women challenged by poverty. The program currently provides services in Jefferson, St. Clair, and Walker Counties.
Please enjoy reading about all of the wonderful and exciting work that the UAB EHSP has engaged in with children and families during this program year.
Kristi Carter Guest, Ph.D.
Director
UAB Early Head Start Program