Program Planning

Thoughtful planning is critical to programming. Explore these resources for guidance throughout the five-year Head Start grant cycle. Learn how to establish continuous cycles of improvement that involve key stakeholders in data-based decision-making. Find resources to help build on achievable program and school readiness goals and fiscal objectives. Discover materials that guide grantees in creating community and self-assessments, and achieve positive outcomes for children and families.

Program planning and service system design together make up one of the 12 management, planning, and oversight systems of the Management Systems Wheel.

Community Assessment Matrix

Thu, 06/01/2017 - 15:08

The community assessment describes the context in which Head Start programs operate and is useful for ensuring that the correct services are provided to the appropriate population. This resource can assist program staff in coordinating their efforts to gather information required for a community assessment. The assessment paints a picture of the community and describes the different needs of families who may receive services. In addition, the community assessment covers the community's history, its economic and political scene, and its strengths and challenges.

Conducting Public Forums and Listening Sessions

Thu, 06/01/2017 - 15:17

Nothing ensures the success of a program more than community participation in assessing their perceived needs, strengths, and hopes for the future. Programs can use this resource to plan and coordinate their community assessment. It provides insight into public forums and listening sessions. Learn how to conduct them to engage your community in identifying and solving problems.

Download Foundations for Excellence

Thu, 06/01/2017 - 15:39

Strategic planning is key to successful programming. In this updated version of Foundations for Excellence, 2nd Edition, explore new insights and resources for program planning and data-informed decision-making.

Foundations for Excellence: Planning in Head Start booklet

Thu, 06/01/2017 - 16:00

PDF for entire Foundations for Excellence: Planning in Head Start booklet.

Topic No. 1: Understanding Goals, Objectives, Outcomes, Progress, and Action Plans

Thu, 06/01/2017 - 16:02

PDF for Topic No. 1: Understanding Goals, Objectives, Outcomes, Progress, and Action Plans.

Topic No. 2: Plans in Head Start

Thu, 06/01/2017 - 16:03

PDF for Topic No. 2: Plans in Head Start.

Topic No. 3: Program Goals and School Readiness Goals Understanding the Relationship

Thu, 06/01/2017 - 16:04

PDF for Topic No. 3: Program Goals and School Readiness Goals Understanding the Relationship.

Topic No. 4: Goals, Objectives, Outcomes, Progress, and Action Plans Program Examples

Thu, 06/01/2017 - 16:05

PDF for Topic No. 4: Goals, Objectives, Outcomes, Progress, and Action Plans Program Examples.

Topic No. 4: Sample Forms for Goals, Objectives, Outcomes, Progress, and Action Plans Program Examples

Thu, 06/01/2017 - 16:07

PDF for Topic No. 4: Goals, Objectives, Outcomes, Progress, and Action Plans Program Examples: Sample Forms.

Topic No. 5: Program Planning and Parent, Family, and Community Engagement

Thu, 06/01/2017 - 16:08

PDF for Topic No. 5: Program Planning and Parent, Family, and Community Engagement.