Head Start holds festive drive-by graduation

Laura Young
ECB Publishing, Inc.

Upbeat music and festive balloons filled the air outside the Jefferson County Head Start Center on Mamie Scott Drive on Tuesday morning, May 24. The program's Class of 2022, dressed up in satiny red caps and gowns, waved from their car windows and sun roofs as they drove with a police escort past cheering staff, supporters from the Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club and the Cat in the Hat. The parade marked an important moment in the children's transition to the next phase of their education. They are on their way to kindergarten!
Jefferson County Head Start Director Althea Thompson said, “I think our parade was fabulous. We truly have enjoyed working with the students this year, and we hope to have the same commitment next year.”
Congratulations to the Jefferson County Head Start Class of 2022:
Tommy Eugene Johnson
Brittani Shanece Russell
Laterious Demarkus Steele
Mikhyri Devon Burse
Jessa Janea Banks
Tylen Arkeem Mitchell
Symone Jordan Miller
Zachari Da'Von Young
DeShawn Eric Kemp
Akeil Alexander Adams
Sariah Renee Griffin
Jermaine Jakobe Brockman
Karson Devon Johnson
Riley Jarisha Bellamy
Amyah Jane Cantu
Jayce Desmond Johnson
Syuri Michelle Moore

The Head Start mission is for these children and their families “to become self-sufficient through the provision of comprehensive services which empower them socially, emotionally, economically and physically.”
Early Childhood Development Program Manager Venita Treadwell oversees three Head Start programs in Leon County, one in Franklin County and the one here in Jefferson County. She said, “We are sending our children off with the skills they need to be successful in school. As you can see, we did it in fine style, thanks to the Jefferson County Head Start staff.”
Darrel James, Family and Community Engagement Manager with Capital Area Community Action Agency's Head Start Program, said, “It was great to see our little ones transitioning today from Head Start. We are looking forward to them making great strides in kindergarten.”
James added that Head Start is openly recruiting new three-year-old children to enroll in Head Start's two-year program. He encourages families to inquire, even if they aren't sure if they qualify for the services, by calling (850) 997-2379.