Kenaitze Cuya Qyut'anen Head Start
The Kenaitze Indian Tribe's Head Start program offers a center-based pre-school for 57 children ages 3-5 years of age. The program is based on child/family needs and preferences. The program operates as a partial day program from 9:30am-2:00pm, Tuesdays through Fridays, 128 days per year. Children are provided with 2 full meals per day. There are three classrooms with two early childhood certified teachers in each class.
Our Head Start program uses its own locally developed cirruculum which incorporates the Head Start Child Outcomes Framework. We have a curriculum that embraces the Tribe's Cultural Heritage Program. The last two years we have integrated the Dena'ina language into our classrooms.
Family support and involvement are key areas of focus for our program. We have a parent policy council that meets monthly. We offer weekly family activities every Friday and as well as an evening event that varies according to needs of our families. Teachers complete at least two home visits and our Family Service Home Visitor meets with each family at least once.
Community partnerships are vital to the well-being of Head Start children and families and management staff dedicate time to community outreach and coordination. Head Start works collaboratively with numerous agencies.
The Head Start program serves 20-23 children each year that have special needs. The most prevalent special need is speech/language delay. The children have access to on-site speech/language therapy. We also work with the Nakenu program to offer services to those children that have behavioral special needs. Each year four to six children qualify for mental health services. These children have one-on-one mental health personnel called Individual Skills Providers in the classroom to help them with emotional/behavioral needs.
Head Start provides on-site dental screenings and fluoride treatments twice per year, thourgh a cooperative agreement with the Dena'ina Health clinic. In cooperation with the Kenai Public Health Center and Frontier Community Serivces all children have health screening tests. These include autiometer testing, impedance testing, Snellen eye chart, and photo screening. Children participate in active play three days per week for a 20 minute time frame. Nutrition services are also provided through the Dena'ina Health Clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we have to be Native to have our child in Kenaitze Indian Head Start?
No, we serve the needs of Native American children, low income families and children with disabilities.
How much does it cost?
There is no charge.
What do I need to do to get my child into Head Start?
Pick up an application, fill it our completely, return all necessary documentation: Child's Birth Certificate, Immunizations, Income verification, Certificate of Indian Blood, Medical insurance.
You can pick up an application at 130 North Willow in Kenai, or you may download a copy of the application (.PFD format, 76KB).
Do you provide transportation?
Yes, we have three busses equipped with safety harnesses for the children.
Do the children have to come every day?
As with all education and development consistency is important. When absenteeism is unavoidable, the parents need to call in prior to 8:00 am. If a child's attendance falls below 85% an Attendance Agreement is developed to help families improve attendance. Children have, in the past, been dropped for attendance issues.
Do I need to send lunch with my child?
No, we provide breakfast and lunch for the children, and an afternoon snack for the late class.
What if my child is sick?
If your child is at school and gets sick, we will call you. If your child is home and too sick to come to Head Start, please call us before 8:00am. In the event your child runs a fever, we ask that he or she be kept home until they have maintained a normal temperature for 24 hours. If your child is very ill and misses three days of Head Start, you will need to provide a doctor's note.
What training do the teachers have?
All of our teachers are trained in, or receiving training in early childhood development. The minimum requirement is an A.A. in Early Childhood Development.
Can I have more than one child enrolled at Head Start?
Yes, however they will probably not be in the same classroom.