ERSEA stands for Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment, and Attendance – the five essential elements of the Head Start program. 

This component of the Head Start program ensures that the program serves the most vulnerable children and families in the community. 

The eligibility guidelines are set based on the income levels of the families, children with disabilities, and homeless children. The recruitment efforts include reaching out to the community and informing them about the program and its benefits. Selection is based on the eligibility criteria, and priority is given to children with the most significant need for services. Enrollment involves the completion of the necessary documentation and obtaining medical and dental screenings for the child. Attendance is critical to ensure that the child receives the essential services offered by the program. 

ERSEA ensures that the services provided are meeting the needs of the families and children in the community.

The family engagement component of the Head Start program is an essential element in promoting children’s development and overall well-being. It recognizes that families are the primary caregivers and teachers and play a critical role in their children’s education and development. The program emphasizes building strong partnerships between families and staff to develop a comprehensive plan for each child’s individual needs.

The staff engages with families to support and encourage their involvement in their child’s education and to provide resources and opportunities for families to learn and grow alongside their children. Through parent-teacher conferences, family events, and regular communication, parents become active partners in their child’s learning journey. This approach ensures that families have access to a network of support, high-quality education, and health and social services that promote their children’s development and success in life. Overall, the family engagement component is essential for Head Start’s success in delivering comprehensive and effective services to young children.

The community engagement component of the Head Start program is a crucial aspect that involves the participation of parents, family members, and the wider community in supporting the program’s goals and objectives. This component emphasizes the importance of community partnerships in providing children and families with comprehensive services that meet their educational, health, and social needs.

Head Start encourages community involvement by providing opportunities for parents and community members to participate in program planning, decision-making, and feedback. Parents are also invited to volunteer in the classroom and participate in parent-teacher conferences to stay up-to-date on their children’s progress.

Moreover, Head Start often partner with community organizations such as health clinics, food banks, and social service agencies to provide additional support and resources to families. Through these partnerships, Head Start aims to build a strong foundation for children’s academic and social success and promote family self-sufficiency, thus benefiting the broader community.