Head Start Awareness Month is an opportunity to celebrate young learners and increase understanding of the program’s leadership in early childhood education and school readiness nationwide. This year, Harris County Department of Education’s (HCDE) Head Start program celebrated the observance by honoring the businesses and community leaders who partner with the division to ensure newborn to five-year-old students and their families have the necessary resources and infrastructure to thrive.  

Nearly 20 representatives from partners like Goodwill, Assistance League of Houston and Precinct 2 gathered on Oct. 29 at the Irvington Conference Center to embrace each other at “Champions for Children.” The theme highlighted the importance of their daily work that provides clothing, toys, meals and more for children across HCDE’s 12 Early Head Start and Head Start campuses.  

Senior Director Venetia Peacock and Superintendent James Colbert Jr. extended their gratitude to attendees who help the division uphold its mission and a video created by the Communications and Creative Services team showcased how students are directly impacted though community donations, programs like the SuperMENtor reading initiative and policy council decisions.  

Assistant Superintendent for Academic Support Services Jonathan Parker rounded out the speakers by recognizing community partners by name and encouraging attendees to network and find new ways to expand their reach across the greater Houston area.   

“In the 10 years I’ve worked for HCDE, I have seen you guys in action,” Parker said, addressing the room. “I have seen the difference you’ve made for our students and their families. The work we’re doing and this mission that we’re on is tough and challenging, but it’s not impossible. Not as long as we have partners like you. You allow us to serve over a thousand students and their families annually and impact their lives. So, I really appreciate y’all for that.”