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What is Policy Council?
A shared decision-making body of the Head Start Program in accordance with the Federal Performance Standards. The Policy Council works in partnership with key management staff and the governing body to develop, review, and approve or disapprove certain policies and procedures; serve as a link to the Parent Committee, governing and community; and assist Parent Committees.
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Who may sit on the Policy Council?
Parents and legal guardians of children currently enrolled in Head Start, former Head Start parents and community agency representatives.
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I have children enrolled at a Head Start center. How can I be elected?
Express your interest in the position to parents at your center. Ask them to vote for you at the Parent Committee Meeting in October. If you receive the majority votes, you are elected.
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How long may I serve on the Policy Council?
Three (3) years total. You must be re-elected each year.
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How often does the Policy Council meet?
Twice per month, on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays. Special meetings may be called to address urgent business.
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Are there sub-committees of the Policy Council?
Yes, there are four standing committees: Budget, Personnel, By-Laws and Program/Planning.
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Will I sit on a standing committee?
Yes, the Policy Council chairperson appoints all members to at least one standing committee. Each committee meets at least once per month.
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Will I receive training?
Absolutely. In addition to written material, the Policy Council Coordinator conducts or arranges trainings to help you carry out your role as a Policy Council member.
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I have a child younger than my Head Start child. Is childcare available when I attend meetings?
The agency generally arranges childcare at the meeting location and incurs cost for this arrangement. If you secure your childcare provider offsite, the agency will reimburse the cost not to exceed a certain amount.
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When will I receive the reimbursement?
The Policy Council Coordinator will submit a request for a check to be issued in your name. The amount is based on the approved expenses you incurred during the month. You should receive a check in the full amount no later than 10 working days after the end of that month.
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Will I travel?
Yes, the Policy Council travels out of the area twice each year; usually in January to the Policy Council Training Retreat and in the Spring (March or April) to the Program Planning Retreat. Other opportunities are available if you are selected by the members to attend. All expenses are paid including transportation, meals, lodging and childcare.
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This sounds exciting - when does the work begin?
There is a lot of serious and worthy work in making major decision about the program.
- You must talk regularly with the parents at your center to hear their viewpoints and concerns.
- You must report to parents at the monthly Parent Committee Meeting.
- You must attend your Policy Council and Standing Committee meetings and review and discuss information to make informed decisions.
- You must actively participate by asking questions, sharing your opinion and making recommendation.
- Your must be prepared to cast your vote.
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Will my participation on the Policy Council open the door to other opportunities?
Your exposure to variety of information, people and places and the opportunity to use your skills will open your eyes-and doors-to many opportunities for personal and professional growth. JOIN THE POLICY COUNCIL AND SEE!
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For more information call (310) 605-0164
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What is Policy Council (PC)?