Parent & Community Engagement

We strive to maintain an effective program of family support through the active involvement of parents. Parents are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the many opportunities to stay involved in their child’s education. Parent engagement helps to foster and maximize long-term success. Through a variety of events and activities, we help bring parents, teachers and children together to celebrate education.

Below is an overview of the interactive, parent-driven initiatives CKYHS has implemented to maximize each child’s success.


Get Involved

Central Kentucky Head Start can only be successful by the involvement of our family members. Whether you’re involved in Policy Council, a Parent Committee or volunteer at your center, your contributions make a huge impact on the children of Head Start. We need you to help make your child’s experience the best it can be. Contact your Family Advocate to learn how you can make a difference.

Family Activities

Throughout the year, Head Start staff and parents come together to participate in numerous fun activities. From field day and literacy nights to art showcases and promotions ceremonies, it’s more fun when we do it together. Our parent volunteers play a huge role in helping us plan and host these activities and we couldn’t appreciate them more.

Parent University

Head Start parents and caregivers are eligible to take advantage of our Parent University, led by staff and community partners. In a series of workshops, participants gain knowledge and skills that encourage self-betterment and cultivate positive family dynamics. Workshops cover topics such as budgeting, financial literacy, parenting skills, healthy relationships and even preparing nutritious meals. Participants receive certificates after completing the fall and spring semesters. We’re proud to support our parents achieve their life-enhancing goals.

Watch D.O.G.S.

Positive male role models can make a huge impact on a child’s development. It’s for this reason that we launched the Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) initiative. Sporting custom shirts, our Watch D.O.G.S. greet students, offer encouragement in the classroom and at organized events, attend meetings and more. They even hold an annual March Dadness competition, which is always a lot of fun.

Comprehensive Support

CKYHS offers wrap-around services that help our Head Start families improve their quality of life and achieve self-sufficiency. As part of the Central Kentucky Community Action Council organization, we’re able to tailor our support to meet the needs of each family. From addressing food insecurity and transportation needs to assistance in finding and obtaining employment and safe housing, we can help. For an overview of all of CKCAC’s services, please visit www.CKCAC.org.

Ready 4K

Developed by educational researchers, practitioners, and parents, Ready4K is a highly accessible, evidence-based family engagement solution that is carefully designed to drive impact at every step along the way. You will receive weekly text messages with important information for you and your child. For more information, please visit www.Ready4k.com.


100%
of parents experienced an increase in confidence

80
collaborative parent meetings were held at our Head Start centers

100%
of parents report a greater understanding of their children’s feelings and behaviors

43
special events or activities were hosted for parents, students and teachers

91%
of parents say they feel that support in times of need is available

92%
of parents felt more connected to their community


*Data from 2021-22 academic year

“Head Start has encouraged me to take interest in my community and has helped me further my child’s education”

T’Keyah H., Head Start Parent