2009 Mississippi County Arkansas Economic Opportunity

Samuel Scruggs, Executive Director
2009
Mississippi County Arkansas Economic
Opportunity Commission, Inc.
Annual Report
MISSION
MCAEOC is committed to alleviating poverty and assisting
low-income individuals and families to secure knowledge,
skills, and opportunities which will enable them to become
self-sufficient and lead lives of dignity.
Central Office
1400 North Division
Blytheville, Arkansas 72315
1
A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SAMUEL SCRUGGS As an employee of the MCAEOC, Inc. since May 1, 1978 and Executive Director since March, 1979, I have seen many positive changes in our community. Unfortunately, one unchanging factor is the ever increasing poverty of a signifi‐
cant number of Mississippi County residents. Whether caused by economic downturns, aging without resources, or separation of families, the effects are overwhelming for those who find themselves in this grievous situation. Poverty is a very real fact of life which cannot be ignored. Poverty can inflict itself on any one, regardless of color, race, age, creed or nationality; and is one of the worst forms of discrimination. The continuing mission of the Mississippi County, Arkansas Economic Opportunity Commission, Inc. is one of great challenge. By utilizing funds from federal, state, and local sources, programs are developed and geared to assist the economically disadvantaged so that they may maintain a decent standard of life. Our programs have impacted the area of nutrition, fair housing, health care, education, employment, child care, fuel and food assistance. For over 30 years, this agency has met and will continue to meet challenges in Mississippi County. We look forward to assisting those in need, advocating on their behalf. Mississippi County, Arkansas Economic Opportunity Commission, Inc. has services into two counties in Arkansas and in Missouri for our Migrant & Seasonal families. 2
Contents
Through the neighborhood services centers and special projects, MCAEOC provides a community‐
based system of service provision to and advocacy for the poor to meet their needs and to enhance the quality of lives, regardless of race, religion, sex, age, disability or national origin. MCAEOC provides some services directly and refers people to other available services. Some of MCAEOC’s activities focus on meeting the immediate and basic needs of the poor (e.g., food and shelter); other activities facilitate long term effects (e.g., education and employment). ELIGIBILITY Eligibility is primarily determined by income guidelines established by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget. MCAEOC staff will assist families and individuals in determining their eligibility. RESOURCES MCAEOC is a non‐discriminating, non‐profit organization which receives local, state, federal, and foundation funds. Early Childhood Education Healthy Start Mississippi County Cancer Council Head Start Early Head Start Arkansas Better Chance Housing Services Arkansas Better Chance School for Success Housing Migrant & Seasonal Head Start Housing Preservation Education & Training Services Social Services Income Counseling Emergency Food & Shelter Workforce Development Employment Services Information and Referral Services Services for the Homeless First Tee of Northeastern Arkansas Small Business Lending Program Transportation Energy Services Good Samaritan Food Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Toys for Children Home Weatherization Youth Development Community Participation Health and Nutrition Services Commodity Food Distribution 3
MCAEOC Governing Board Public Sector Mr. Mylas Jeffers, Jr. Chairperson Judge Steve McGuire, Vice Chairperson Mayor Barrett Harrison Sylvester Belcher Mrs. Marilyn Looney Ms. Rebecca Hartgraves Private Sector Rev. R.J. Hill Mrs. Faye Ford Rev. Eddie Echols Ms. Beth Thomas Ms. Laura Hansen Mr. Monte Hodges Community Sector Mr. Patrick Blake Mr. Andrew Smith Mr. Steven Ledbetter Ms. Saundra Greene Ms. Eloise Moore Mr. Letroy Gathen Consultant Attorney Bill Bracey, Jr.
4
MISSISSIPPI COUNTY,ARKANSAS ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, INC. COMBINED ANNUAL REPORT As of December 31, 2009 STATEMENT OF ASSESTS, LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS Asset: 
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Cash in Bank: $ 856,514.84 Inventory: 16,735.76 Cash Receivable Funding Source: 82,650.87 Accounts Receivable: Clients 108,726.29 Accounts Receivable: Other Programs 84,991.44 Accounts Receivable: Reimbursements 18,814.05 Inventory: Equipment 1,229450.55 FIXED ASSETS: 

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Program Real Estate 1,835,400.37 Facilities Building 442,414.00 Utility Deposits 148.00 Total Assets: $ 4,675,846.17 LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS LIABILITIES: 

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Group Insurance Premium Payable 21,243.13 Cancer Insurance Payable 840.15 Cancer Insurance Payable 2,078.70 Employee Life Insurance 14,936.53 Benevolent Fund Payable 889.12 Employee Funds 36.76 Accrued Bills Payable 141,673.76 Accrued Wages Payable 1,851.82 402,682.10 Refundable Wages Payable Notes Payable: LISC 208,567.72 TOTAL NET ASSESTS 3,723,493.13 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSESTS $ 4,675,846.17 NET ASSESTS: Investment in Inventory ‐ Investment in Fixed Assets ‐ Unrestricted Temporary Restricted $ 149,290.26 $ 556,135.40 $ 2,425,704.13 $ 592,363.34 5
AGENCY 2009 FUNDING SOURCES
FEDERAL Head Start Early Head Early Head Expansion (ARRA) Head Start (ARRA) Migrant / Seasonal Head Start Healthy Start Com modities Weatherization (DOE) Weatherization (ARRA) Home Energy Assistance Housing Preservation Emergency Food & Shelter TOTAL FEDER AL FUNDING $ 10,782,048 STATE FUNDING Community Service Block Grant (CSBG) CSBG (ARRA) CSBG Discretionary Grant Arkansas Better Chance TOTAL STATE FUNDS $2,094,959.00 PRIVATE & LOCAL FUNDS 115,933.00 TOTAL AGENCY FUNDING: $ 12,992,940.00 6
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) has made a tremendous impact on existing CSBG programs: CSBG Income‐eligibility Guidelines—Under ARRA, income‐eligibility guidelines increased from 125% to 200% of the federal poverty level. This significant change means that an increased number of individuals, families and households will be able to receive CSBG services. Head Start ARRA Improves Head Start & Early Head Start Programming and Operational Capacity Funding from ARRA expands Head Start and Early Head Start services to reach an additional 221 income‐eligible children. These funds also support three areas of MCAEOC Head Start, which enables comprehensive improvements to programming and operational output. These areas of support are outlined below: Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) Equips Staff with Financial Security 
All staff and delegate agencies of Head Start received a cost‐of‐living adjustment (COLA) increase in FY 2009. 
COLA is used to increase pay to help manage higher operating costs and increase staff salaries and fringe benefits. 
Competitive pay allows MCAEOC to retain and recruit qualified staff for classrooms and other educational areas. 7
8
GOAL I: Low-income People Become More Self-Sufficient
NPI 1 – Employment Supports – The number of low‐income participants for whom barriers to initial or continuous employment are reduced or eliminated through assistance from community action as measured by one or more of the following:
OUTCOMES
Enrolled in
Program
Planned
Actual
Obtained access to reliable transportation and/or 873 driver’s license in order to gain or maintain employment 300 873 Obtained safe and affordable housing in support of family stability needed to gain or retain employment 7 8 8 Obtained food assistance in support of family stability needed to gain or retain employment 5375 2250 5375 Number of participating families moving from substandard housing into stable standard housing, as compared with total number of participating families 0 6 Number of households which obtain home ownership 6 9 Number of people making progress toward post‐secondary degree or vocational training 36 32 ADDITIONAL MEASURES NPI 2.1 Community Improvement and Revitalization – Increase in, or safeguarding of threatened community resources or services for low‐income people in the community as a result of community action projects/initiatives or advocacy with other public and private agencies, as measured by one or more of the following: Safe and affordable housing units in the community preserved or improved through construction, weatherization, or rehabilitation achieved by community action activity or advocacy OUTCOMES Planned Actual 6 8 9
OUTCOMES Planned Actual 28 27 Planned number of opportunities and/or community resources preserved/increased Accessible, safe, and affordable childcare or child development placement opportunities for low‐income families created or saved from reduction or elimination Planned number of opportunities and/or community resources preserved/increased 40 49 GOAL 3: Low‐income People Own a Stake in Their Community MEASURES NPI 3.2 –Community Empowerment through Maximum Feasible Participation The number of low‐income people mobilized as a direct result of community action initiative to engage in activities that support and promote their own well‐being and that of their community as measured by one or more of the following: Planned Actual Number of low‐income people participating in formal 12 137 community organizations, government, board or councils that provide input to decision‐making and policy setting through community action efforts Number of low‐income people purchasing their own 4 6 homes in their community as a result of community action assistance ADDITIONAL MEASURES OUTCOMES Planned Actual Number of participating families moving from homeless or transitional housing into stable standard housing 6 9 Number of high consumption households realizing a reduction in energy burden (example: weatherization, assurance 16. regular HEAP) 721 1959 10
GOAL 6: Low‐income People, Especially Vulnerable Populations, Achieve Their Potential by Strengthening Family and Other Supportive Systems NPI 6 – INDEPENDENT LIVING – The number of vulnerable individuals receiving services from community action that maintain an independent living situation as a result of those services: OUTCOMES Planned Actual Senior Citizens 45 35 Individuals with disabilities (non‐elderly) 26 32 NP1 6 ‐2 – Emergency assistance that the number of low‐income individuals or families served by community action that sought emergency assistance and the percentage of those households for which assistance was provided, including such services as listed: Number Seeking Assistance 780 Number Receiving Assistance 682 Total Percentage 99% 18 18 100% Emergency payments to vendors, including fuel, and energy bills and rent/mortgage payments Clothing Childcare and family development the number and percentage of all infants, children, youth, parents, and other adults participating in developmental or enrich‐
ment programs that achieve program goals, as meas‐
ured by one or more of the following: Planned Outcomes Percentage Infants and children obtain age appropriate immunizations, medical, and dental 375 1269 338% Youth have reduced involvement with criminal justice system 243 657 270% 258 18% Youth increase academic, athletic, or social skills for 1459 school success by participating in before or after school programs 11
Program Services Commodity Food Distribution a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and the Migrant & Seasonal Surplus foods such as rice, honey, beans and program operating hours are from 6:00 a.m. to selected can goods are distributed to help 4:00 p.m. supplement the diets of needy persons in eligible households. These foods are made Home Energy Assistance Program available by the USDA and distributed Depending upon the availability of funds, periodically at various authorized sites. payments are made on a one‐time basis to en‐
ergy suppliers to assist low‐income households Emergency Food and Shelter in Provides funds to low‐income families in paying their energy bills. emergency situations to assist in obtaining food, shelter, and other necessities for a limited period Home Weatherization of time. Energy saving measures such as caulking, underpinning, and insulation are provided to Employment Services households with members who meet the in‐
Employment counseling and workshops, job come referrals, employer contacts, and follow‐up eligibility guidelines, with emphasis on elderly and/or handicapped persons. activities are provided to those seeking employment. Income Counseling Services for the Homeless Counseling sessions and workshops on income This program is geared toward homeless or utilization issues, such as: planning nutritious displaced families and individuals. Food, shelter/
and housing, transportation, emergency medical economical meals, family budgeting, managing supplies, and/or basic necessities are provided, utility costs, etc., are provided. as circumstances warrant. Referrals for assistance in employment, income maintenance, Youth Development medical treatment, and other transitional sup‐
Cultural enrichment, social development, and port services are also provided. recreational events are provided for youths. Early Childhood Education Housing (Head Start, Migrant & Seasonal Head Start, MCAEOC operates a Housing Rehabilitation Arkansas Better Chance School for Success, Early Program and provides affordable rental housing Head Start, Operation Parenting Edge, & School for low income individuals. It also develops new of the 21st Century of Yale University) multi‐family units by using the HOME Program, low‐income tax credits, and the Housing and The program will provide child development Urban Development Program (HUD) as well as services and activities, health services, nutrition new single family Housing Down Payment Assis‐
assistance, special services, for children with tance. disabilities, parental involvement, volunteer participation, staff training and other social and Housing Preservation support services to over 1,000 children and their families. The Department of Early Childhood Provides assistance to low‐income home owners Education serves infants, toddlers, and through USDA Housing Preservation program to preschoolers. Services are available from 7:45 bring houses up to 502 Standards. 12
Program Services cont. Community Participation Low‐income persons are assisted in participation and in local community activities Healthy Start Works to reduce infant mortality and low birth weight babies. Good Samaritan Fund Good Samaritan Fund is an Emergency Assistance Demonstration Program funded by Blytheville First United Methodist Church. The funds are used to provide assistance on a case‐by‐case basis to alleviate emergency needs of residents of the Greater Blytheville area. First Tee of Northeastern Arkansas The First Tee Coach Program is an educational training program that prepares staff and volunteers at Chapters of the First Tee to deliver The First Tee Life Skills Experience, which includes the TARGET program, as well as the Par, Birdie, Eagle and Ace levels of certification. Mississippi County Cancer Council Provides free mammography and prostate screenings to residents of Mississippi County. Small Business Lending Program MCAEOC operates a micro‐lending program for small business development and expansion in the Mississippi County Enterprise Community. Toys for Children Provides toys for needy children. Empowering Communities For Life 13
Early Childhood Education Department
Head Start
Early Head Start
Arkansas Better Chance
Arkansas Better Chance School
for Success
Migrant & Seasonal Head Start
Head Start, Migrant & Seasonal Head Start, Arkansas Better Chance, Early Head Start,/Operation Parenting Edge, & School of the 21st Century of Yale University The program provides child development services and activities, health services, nutrition assistance, special services, for children with disabilities, parental involvement, volunteer participation, staff training and other social and support services to over 1,000 children and their families. The Department of Early Childhood Education
serves infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
Head Start & Early Head Start services are available from 7:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Migrant & Seasonal Head Start Program operating hours are from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on a needed basis. EOC Childcare Center in
Caruthersville, MO
Circle Time
14
Early Childhood Education Department Funding Sources State Funding Head Start, Early Head Start, Migrant & Seasonal Arkansas Better Chance For School Success Head Start Head Start is a national program that promotes MCAEOC participates in the Arkansas Better school readiness by enhancing the social and Chance (ABC) program. ABC is a state‐funded cognitive development of children through the preschool program that provides high‐quality provision of educational, health, nutritional, social and other services to enrolled children and early care and education to Arkansas’ young families. Mississippi County Arkansas, EOC serve children, birth to 5 years of age. MCAEOC’s ABC program provides preschool children with the 650 preschoolers, 160 infant/toddlers and 8 skills, enrichment, and learning opportunities that pregnant mothers. increase their chances of future success in school. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION All ABC teachers are highly trained in developmentally appropriate practices for the In 1964, MCAEOC, Inc. program established a education of young children. Head Start program in Dell Arkansas to provide comprehensive child development services to Teachers are required to meet higher education economically disadvantaged children and guidelines set forth by the Division of Child Care families, with a special focus on helping preschoolers develop the early reading and math and Early Childhood Education, Arkansas Department of Human Services and the State skills they need to be successful in school. By Board of Education. Classrooms are evaluated 1981, the Migrant Head Start program was annually and must maintain high scores in initiated for 100 children who was mobile over classroom environment and safety. Income the past year and was involved in agricultural eligibility for the ABC program permits a family to related work. In 1998, the Early Head Start have an income of up to 200% of the federal program was established to serve children from poverty level. This higher income level allows birth to three years of age in recognition of the mounting evidence that the earliest years matter MCAEOC to offer programming to families that otherwise would not qualify under the Head Start a great deal to children's growth and income guideline of 100% FPL. development. The ABC program at MCAEOC began in 1992 with Head Start programs promote school readiness 6 classrooms with funding for 111 children. Since by enhancing the social and cognitive development of children through the provision of that time, MCAEOC has continued to expand its educational, health, nutritional, social and other ABC program and currently offers program services to 287 students in 19 classrooms across services to enrolled children and families. They Mississippi County, AR. Arkansas Better Chance engage parents in their children's learning and classrooms are located in the following help them in making progress toward their communities: Blytheville, Gosnell, Leachville, educational, literacy and employment goals. Luxora, Manila, Osceola, and Wilson. Significant emphasis is placed on the involvement of parents in the administration of local Head Start programs. 15
Federal Funding USDA 2009 Reimbursements
January Breakfast: 8,321
January Lunch: 8,444
January Snack: 8,282
January Total Reimbursement: $39,634.10
July Breakfast: 5,004
July Lunch: 5,068
July Snack: 4,983
July Total Reimbursement: $24,971.91
February Breakfast: 9,169
February Lunch: 9,321
February Snack: 9,138
February Total Reimbursement: $44,243.33
August Breakfast: 5,786
August Lunch: 5,826
August Snack: 5,758
August Total Reimbursement: $28,827.35
March Breakfast: 8,745
March Lunch: 8,830
March Snack: 8,658
March Total Reimbursement: $41,973.84
September Breakfast: 11,950
September Lunch: 12,038
September Snack: 11,914
September Total Reimbursement: $59,474.12
April Breakfast: 12,420
April Lunch: 12,641
April Snack: 12,423
April Total Reimbursement: $60,045.26
October Breakfast: 13,347
October Lunch: 13,508
October Snack: 13,308
October Total Reimbursement: $66,583.63
May Breakfast: 6,960
May Lunch: 7,039
May Snack: 6,593
May Total Reimbursement: $33,126.28
November Breakfast: 10,733
November Lunch: 10,879
November Snack: 10,706
November Total Reimbursement: $53,674.94
June Breakfast: 7,565
June Lunch: 7,670
June Snack: 7,504
June Total Reimbursement: $35,916.24
December Breakfast: 7,873
December Lunch: 7,913
December Snack: 7,484
December Total Reimbursement: $38,923.71
16
2009‐10 Early Head Start End of Month Enrollment August 2009 MCAEOC EARLY 143
CHILDHOOD DEVELSeptember 2009
184
OPMENT END OF
October 2009
MONTH AVERAGES 166
November 2009
182
December 2009
174
January 2010
167
February 2010
154
March 2010
166
April 2010
161
May 2010
148
June 2009
July 2009
180
168
2009‐10 Head Start End of Month Averages August
September
October
November
December
January
February
March
April
May
650
632
656
657
649
669
670
665
672
667
2009 Migrant & Seasonal Head Start End of Month Averages May
June
July
August
September
October
November
45
81
132
146
153
158
158
17
Early Childhood Development and Health
Head Start’s commitment to wellness embraces a comprehensive vision of health for children, families, and staff. The objective of Child Health and Development Services is to ensure that, through collaboration among families, staff, and health professionals, all child health and developmental concerns are identified, and children and families are linked to an ongoing source of continuous, accessible care to meet their basic health needs. 2009 Health Performance Indicators
The objective of Education and Early Childhood Development is to provide all children with a safe, nurturing, engaging, enjoyable, and secure learning environment, in order to help them gain the awareness, skills, and confidence necessary to succeed in their present environment, and to deal with later responsibilities in school and in life. Each child is treated as an individual in an inclusive community that values, respects, and responds to diversity. The varied experiences provided by the program support the continuum of children’s growth and development, which includes the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of each child. 12000.00%
10000.00%
8000.00%
Head Start
State
6000.00%
4000.00%
2000.00%
0.00%
Migrant & Seasonal Head Start
State
Early Head Start
State
Expon. (Head Start)
2 per. Mov. Avg. (State)
Expon. (Migrant & Seasonal Head Start)
18
Family and Community Partnerships
Head Start offers parents opportunities and support for growth, so that they can identify their own strengths, needs and interests, and find their own solutions. The objective of Family Partnerships is to support parents as they identify and meet their own goals, nurture the development of their children in the context of their family and culture, and advocate for communities that are supportive of children and families of all cultures. The building of trusting, collaborative relationships between parents and staff allows them to share with and to learn from one another. Head Start serves families within the context of the community, and recognizes that many other agencies and groups work with the same families. The objective of Community Partnerships is to ensure that grantee and delegate agencies collaborate with partners in their communities, in order to provide the highest level of services to children and families, to foster the development of a continuum of family centered services, and to advocate for a community that shares responsibility for the healthy development of children and families of all cultures. Head Start Families participating in a goal setting process resulting in a FPA 100% Mental Health Services 42.44% Two parent families 28.40% Single parent families 71.60% Two parent employed 16.67% One parent employed 74.19% Parents in Training 37.10 Parenting Education 100% Families receiving at least one family service 38.6% Migrant & Seasonal Head Start Early Head Start 100% 0% 71.43% 28.57% 32% 68% 0% 100% 100% 54% 31.54 68.46% 25.53 68.09% 21.57% 21.48 25.86% 23.49% 19
Staff Education /Professional Development
Since the success of MCAEOC Head Start depends largely upon the qualification of its staff, MCAEOC has implemented a system of professional development and educational opportunities. MCAEOC supports staff in meeting these challenges by providing adequate and appropriate supervision, regular feedback, and structured opportunities. It is important that staff are qualified to carryout curriculums to meet the appropriate child development needs. Management and administrative staff consist of highly qualified professionals with years of training and/or experience in their area of expertise with 80% holding associate, bachelor or master level degrees. Center coordinators bring years of expertise in early childhood service and management with all holding college credentials or degrees. Teaching staff met the 2003 teacher qualifications demands set forth by the federal government with over 50% receiving degrees in early childhood or related field. Currently, staff have exceeded this requirement and have begun pursuing degrees to meet the 2011 education mandates. With the largest employment placement demand for preschool teaching positions, preschool teachers currently exceed 90% degreed level and infant/toddler staff creating a focus to attain more degrees in the infant/toddler teaching staff population. In addition to other training, all staff
are required to attend Pre-Service
Training at least two times yearly
Staff and Partners attend NHSA Conference in Dallas, TX
20
Parent Activities
Fathers/relatives visit Head Start centers on
‘Fathering Fridays’
Head Start host monthly parent meetings. Our parent meeting schedule includes our Calendar for the year. The training calendar explains what training will take place and what month. We encourage male involvement every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month at different Head Start Centers. We support literacy by way of the Lending Library and Parent and Child Together (PACT) Time. We also had approximately 40 volunteers in our centers. We give our parents a monthly newsletter with information. At the beginning of the year each center hosts an Open House. The centers also had a celebration in October 2009. Fathering Fridays
“Donuts with Dad”
21
The Uses of Technology in Head Start
Due to the continued growing use of Information Technology, MCAEOC is seeking ways to increase its technological power and connectivity. Maximizing performance and versatility in a multimedia environment is a major goal of the agency. By focusing on the future technological needs of MCAEOC, we hope to ensure a work environment that delivers an outstanding combination of manageability, serviceability, and consistency in the services that it provides. There are workstations at all Head Start facilities connected to the Internet. All of MCAEOC’s staff has access to the Internet. All central office coordinators and specialists have a computer system at their desks. Other workstations are located at the Parent Recourse Center, the Family Resource Center, center coordinator’s offices, and each preschool Head Start classroom. Elec‐
tronic mail accounts have been set up for all central office staff, Data Entry Clerks, Family Service staff, and center staff. Head Start has a satellite connection at its Parent Resource Center, Family Resource Center, and Leachville Head Start. Programs may be received from broadcasts from around the country. PROMIS (Program Resource and Outcomes Management Information System) is being used to track children. PROMIS is a web‐based system. This system enables all computers connected to the Internet to share information rapidly over cable, wireless networks, or DSL lines. To enhance the educational setting of our Head Start classrooms, an automated educational assessment tool is being used. The Core Knowledge (CK‐PAT) software will also assist with analyzing child outcomes. All preschool classrooms are equipped with a computer system that is loaded with preschool software that enhances the children’s learning. This area is set up in the classroom as the Technology Center. School Readiness
In our efforts to address the education/Head Start Transition to school needs of the children and families in our program. ∙ Head Start provides each school district the following: immunization record, medical record, birth certificate, and a current physical. ∙ The constant flows of dialogue between school and Head Start is positive. ∙ Head Start teachers spends a day in a kindergarten classroom is a plus. ∙ The school librarian assisted with setting up Head Start’s library. ∙ The kindergarten teachers provide a list of materials that Head Start children will need to learn upon entering kindergarten. ∙ All Head Start children received a Kindergarten Readiness Calendar at the beginning of the school year from the Arkan‐
sas Department of Education. All Head Start children received a Kindergarten Readiness Calendar at the beginning of the school year from the Arkansas Department of Education. ∙ Head Start participates with all school districts in Family Night. Booths are displayed for Pre‐K through third grade to enhance math and literacy skills. ∙ Each school district provides a kindergarten teacher/principal to visit the Head Start centers to meet with parent. ∙ At the end of the year, each Head Start child receives a transitional packet. This packet include: ‘Parent’s Guide After Head Start, Kindergarten Readiness Indicator’, Coloring Book with print enriched activities, Preschoolers Get Ready to Read, and Kindergarten Learn to Read. 22
CK-PAT and Outcomes Information from 2009-10 School Year
The preschool programs offered by MCAEOC use the Core Knowledge Preschool Sequence as the basis for classroom curricu‐
lum. Teachers have been trained in developmentally appropriate practices through the Core Knowledge Foundation and lessons are taught in specific academic domains that include Mathematics, Social Development, Science, Phonological Awareness, and Language. The academic progress of each preschool student is evaluated during the program session with the Core Knowledge – Preschool Assessment Tool (CK‐PAT). Individual portfolios are created and contain documentation that allows the teachers to evaluate the progress of each student. Portfolio documentation can include examples of children’s written work or artwork, pictures of students completing skill activities, and skill checklists. Three times per program session, the classroom teachers evaluate the students’ portfolios and enter ratings in the CK‐PAT online database. Individual reports are printed by the teachers and shared with the parents during conferences. The CK‐PAT results are used to guide lesson planning and develop weekly individualized plans for the students. Agency reports are also generated in order to track progress of the students as a whole. Data obtained from the agency report is used to determine areas of strength and weakness in order to provide staff training. The 2009‐10 End‐of‐Year reporting period for Level 1 Head Start indicates the students have had a very good program year. Students are obtaining skills that will prepare them for their second year of preschool. The level 1 students of the 2009‐10 Head Start program have shown good progress in the following domains: Literacy: Understands an increasingly complex and varied vocabulary 69.44% of students are Ready Scientific Knowledge 69.13% of students are Ready Speaking: Uses an increasingly complex and varied vocabulary 72.33% of students are Ready Speaking 70.72% of students are Ready Areas of concentration for improvement during the 2010‐11 program year are as follows: Literacy: Alphabet Knowledge: letters of the alphabet – special visual graphics 15.31% of students are Ready 44.75% of students are Progressing The 2009‐10 End‐of‐Year reporting period for Level 2 Head Start indicates the students have had a very successful program year. Students have obtained skills that are necessary for Kindergarten readiness, and will be able to enter the public school better prepared and ready for their next level of learning. The level 2 students of the 2009‐10 Head Start program have shown exceptional progress in the following domains: Literacy: Alphabet Knowledge: Letters of alphabet – special visual graphics 79.82% of students are Ready Mathematics: Numbers and Operations 74.66% of students are Ready Scientific Knowledge: 78.84% of students are Ready Social Skills 80.08% of students are Ready Over 60% of all students were ready in all domain areas, except for the following three areas: Literacy: Early Writing 55.35% of students are Ready Literacy: Phonological Awareness: Associates sound with written words 44.73% of students are Ready Literacy: Print awareness and concepts 53.70% of students are Ready Overall, these percentages are excellent and the MCAEOC students and staff can be proud of the goals they accomplished during the 2009‐10 program year. 23
MI SSISSIPPI COUNTY ARKANSAS ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION
Ear ly Childhood Education Department
Le vel 2 End-Of-Year Agency Report
May 25, 2010
79.82
80.42
80.08
78.84
74.66
71.74
70.17
69.25
71.29
61.84
55.35
53.70
44.73
40.17
43.22
39.03
35.08
29.00
26.51
25.55
24.12
22.30
18.38
16.22
5.70
1.73
20.19
4.46
2.69
1.79
3.07
Listening:
Literacy:
Literacy:
Literacy:
Literacy:
Understands
Alphabet
Alphabet
Book
Early Writing
an
Knowledge: Knowledge: knowledge
increasingly Identifies at
letters of
and
complex and
least 10
alphabet - appreciation
varied
letters of special visual
vocabulary
alphabet
graphics
3.05
3.00
0.96
18.58
18.25
1.32
1.30
Literacy:
Literacy:
Literacy: Mathematics: Scientific Social Skills Speaking:
Phonological
Print
Print
Numbers and Knowledge
Uses an
Awareness: Awareness awareness Operations
increasingly
Associates
and
and concepts
complex and
sounds with Concepts:
varied
written words Recognizes a
vocabulary
word as unit
of print
P erformance Levels
Progressing
Ready
2.17
Speaking
Not Yet
MISSISSIPPI COUNTY ARKANSAS ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION
Early Childhood Education Department
Head Start Domains -- Level 1 End-Of-Year Agency Report
May 25, 2010
69.44
57.50
57.14
44.75
39.90
53.74
49.14
46.99
57.63
55.36
41.43
36.56
36.04
25.79
21.58
21.42 21.42
15.31
Listening:
Understands
an
increasingly
complex and
varied
vocabulary
70.72
50.66
34.06
30.94
4.76
72.33
69.13
68.24
30.45
26.37
24.66
28.85
12.77
3.84
8.29
6.42
0.79
3.18
Literacy:
Literacy:
Literacy:
Literacy:
Literacy: Literacy: Print Literacy: Print Mathematics:
Alphabet
Alphabet
Book
Early Writing Phonological Awareness
awareness Numbers and
Knowledge: Knowledge: knowledge
Awareness: and Concepts: and concepts Operations
Identifies at
letters of
and
Associates Recognizes a
least 10
alphabet appreciation
sounds with word as unit
letters of
special visual
written words
of print
alphabet
graphics
Ready
P erformance Levels
Progressing
Not Yet
0.41
Scientific
Knowledge
Social Skills
1.27
Speaking:
Uses an
increasingly
complex and
varied
vocabulary
0.40
Speaking
24
MISSISSIPPI COUNTY ARKANSAS ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION
Early Childhood Education Department
Migrant/Seasonal Head Start Domains -- Level 1 End-Of-Year Agency Report
November 13, 2009
75.00
62.50
71.42
75.00
62.50
62.50
40.00
28.57
Literacy: Early
Writing
Literacy: Print Literacy: Print
Awareness and awareness and
concepts
Concepts:
Recognizes a
word as unit of
print
Performance Levels
Progressing
Ready
Mathematics:
Numbers and
Operations
Social Skills
Speaking: Uses
an increasingly
complex and
varied
vocabulary
0.00
Scientific
Knowledge
0.00
0.00
0.00
Literacy:
Phonological
Awareness:
Associates
sounds with
written words
0.00
Literacy: Book
knowledge and
appreciation
0.00
Literacy:
Alphabet
Knowledge:
letters of
alphabet special visual
graphics
10.00
14.28
12.50
0.00
Literacy:
Listening:
Alphabet
Understands an
Knowledge:
increasingly
complex and Identifies at least
10 letters of
varied
alphabet
vocabulary
0.00
14.28
0.00
14.28
14.28
25.00
25.00
37.50
25.00
25.00
28.57
37.50
37.50
42.85
42.85
50.00
57.14
71.42
75.00
75.00
87.50
Speaking
Not Yet
75.00
100.00
50.00
50.00
66.66
Ready
Performance Levels
Progressing
Social Skills
Speaking: Uses an increasingly complex and varied vocabulary
0.00
0.00
0.00
25.00
Literacy: Mathematics: Scientific Literacy: Literacy: Literacy: Literacy: Literacy: Listening: Literacy: Print Numbers and Knowledge
Print Book Early Writing Phonological Alphabet Understands Alphabet Awareness: Awareness awareness Operations
Knowledge: Knowledge: knowledge an and concepts
and and Associates increasingly Identifies at letters of sounds with Concepts: alphabet ‐ appreciation
complex and least 10 written Recognizes a letters of special visual varied word as unit words
graphics
alphabet
vocabulary
of print
0.00
0.00
25.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
25.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
25.00
33.33
50.00
50.00
33.33
0.00
25.00
0.00
100.00
75.00
100.00
75.00
75.00
66.66
75.00
100.00
MISSISSIPPI COUNTY ARKANSAS ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION
Early Childhood Education Department
Migrant/Seasonal Head Start Domains ‐‐ Level 2 End‐Of‐Year Agency Report
November 13, 2009
Speaking
Not Yet
25
MOST RECENT HEAD START REVIEW BY THE OFFICE OF HEAD START
Overview of Findings
From 11/15/2009 to 11/17/2009 the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) conducted an on‐site monitoring review of the Mississippi County Arkansas EOC, Inc. Head Start and Early Head Start Programs. We wish to thank the governing body, Policy Council, staff, and parents of our program for their cooperation and assistance during the review. This Head Start Review Re‐
port has been issued to Mr. Mylas C. Jeffers, Jr. Board Chairperson, as legal notice to your agency of the results of the on‐site review. Based on the information gathered during our review, we have closed the previously identified findings. Accordingly, no corrective action is required at this time. Overview Information
Review Type: Organization: Program Type: Team Leader: Funded Enrollment HS: Follow Up Mississippi County Arkansas Economic Opportunity Commission, Inc HS Mrs. Maugarra Walker‐Hazley 650 Date of review in which
noncompliance was
identified
Applicable
Standards
Program
Type
Status
Nov. 30, 2009
74.28
HS and EHS
Corrected
Nov. 30, 2009
1304.20(b)(1)
HS
Corrected
Nov. 30, 2009
1304.23(b)(3)
HS
Corrected
Nov. 30, 2009
1304.40(i)(6)
EHS
Corrected
Nov. 30, 2009
1305.4(c)
1305.4(d)
1305.4(e)
HS and EHS
Corrected
Funded Enrollment EHS: 168 Status of Previously Identified Areas of Noncompliance
26
Education & Training Services
Income Counseling Counseling sessions and workshops on income utilization issues, such as: planning nutritious and economical meals, family budgeting, managing utility costs, etc., are provided. Workforce Development Employment Services Employment counseling and workshops, job referrals, employer contacts, and follow‐up activities are provided to those seeking employment. Information and Referral Services Community Participation Low‐income persons are assisted in participation and in local community activities. 27
FIRST TEE KIDS DAY
28
First Tee of Northeastern Arkansas
The First Tee of NE Arkansas is the only youth-golf organization in the state to offer
memberships at NO COST to participants. This is made possibly solely through the
generosity of the citizens, businesses, and industries in the area.
The First Tee is a World Golf Foundation initiative dedicated to providing young people of all back‐
grounds an opportunity to develop, through golf and character education, life‐enhancing values such as honesty, integrity and sportsmanship. Our mission: To impact the lives of young people by providing learning facilities and educational pro‐
grams that promote character development and life‐enhancing values through the game of golf. First Tee Nine Core Values
The First Tee has established Nine Core Values that represent some of the many inherently positive values connected with the game of golf. These Nine Core Values have been incorporated into The First Tee Experience and have been used to name golf holes at several of The First Tee facilities. 1. Honesty ‐ the quality or state of being truthful; not deceptive Golf is unique from other sports in that players regularly call penalties on themselves. 2. Integrity ‐ strict adherence to a standard of value or conduct. Personal honesty and independence. Golf is a game of honesty, etiquette and composure. You are responsible for your actions and personal conduct on the golf course. 3. Sportsmanship ‐ observing the rules of play and winning or losing with grace. You must know and abide by the rules of golf and be able to conduct yourself in a respectful manner. 4. Respect ‐ to feel or show deferential regard for; esteem. In golf it is important to show respect for yourself, your partners, your opponents and the golf course as well as for the honor and traditions of the game. 5. Confidence ‐ reliance or trust. A feeling of self‐assurance Confidence plays a key role in the level of play that you achieve. You must have confidence in your abilities every time you play. 6. Responsibility ‐ accounting for one’s actions. Dependable In golf, you are responsible for yourself and your actions on the golf course. It is up to you to keep score, repair divots, rake bunkers, repair ball marks on the green and keep up with the pace of play. 7. Perseverance ‐ to persist in an idea, purpose or task despite obstacles. To succeed in golf, you must learn to persevere through bad breaks and your own mistakes. 8. Courtesy ‐ considerate behavior toward others. A polite remark or gesture. A round of golf should begin and end with a handshake between fellow competitors. Show courtesy toward others by remaining still and quiet while they prepare and execute a shot. 9. Judgment ‐ the ability to make a decision or form an opinion. A decision reached after consideration. Using good judgment is critical in golf. It comes into play when deciding on strategy, club selection, when to play safe and when to take a chance, the type of shot you consider executing, as well as understanding and abiding by proper etiquette. 29
Young people do not automatically act with Integrity or demonstrate sportsmanship. The acquisition of values is often a by‐product of a series of complex processes that evolve from individuals’ experiences. The First Tee Life Skills Education programs teach participants a set of life skills to allow them to face challenges at home, school, and at play in a constructive manner. The goal is for participants to internalize the Nine Core Values which are at the heart of The First Tee mission. First Tee Fun Day
First Tee has developed a strategic plan for ongoing research to:  Measure the impact of the Life Skills Education programs on participants. • Examine how and why The First Tee is a valuable youth development organization.  Enable The First Tee to improve its programs for participants. Carter Ellis and Kadeem Johnson
and 1st place winners in the
“THE SCRAMBLE” sponsored by
The First Tee
30
Why We Do Research
Target Introduction to the Life Skills Experience; provides a fun and safe environment that creates curiosity about the game of golf. Par : Focuses on interpersonal communication and self management skills.
Birdie: Emphasizes goal setting.
Eagle: Builds on Par and Birdie levels and emphasizes resistance skills, conflict resolution and planning for the future. Ace: The Advanced Level of the Life Skills Experience; focuses on personal planning and reinforces life skills learned in previous levels.
Life Skills Transfer: Youth in The First Tee scored higher than the comparison group on meeting and greeting, managing emotions, resolving conflicts, appreciating diversity, and getting help from others. General Life Skills Usage: Youth in The First Tee scored higher than the comparison group on goal setting, initiative, emotional regulation, pro‐social norms, and positive relationships. Developmental Outcomes: Youth in The First Tee scored higher than the comparison group on perceived academic competence (confidence), moral conduct (responsibility, honesty, integrity), self‐efficacy to resist peer pressure (judgment), and preference for challenging skills (perseverance). 31
ENERGY SERVICES
HEAP
Program Description
The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps low‐income households with home energy costs by adminis‐
tering Regular Assistance and Crisis Intervention Programs. Each program provides financial assistance to eligible households with a one‐time per year payment to the household's energy supplier or, under certain circumstances, to the applicant. The Crisis Intervention Program provides assistance to eligible house‐
holds facing energy‐related emergencies. In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Arkansas, you must need financial assistance for home energy costs and your household's annual income before taxes must not exceed $12,762 if one person lives in the household; $17,112 if two people live in the household; $21,462 if three people live in the household; $25,812 if four people live in the household; $30,162 if five people live in the household; $34,512 if six people live in the household; $38,862 if seven people live in the household; or $43,212 if eight people live in the household. For larger households, add $4,350 for each additional person in the home. Weatherization Assistance Program
Program Description
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is the nation's largest residential energy efficiency program. Its mission is to insulate the dwellings of low‐income persons, particularly the elderly, persons with dis‐
abilities, families with children, high residential energy users, and households with a high energy burden, in order to conserve needed energy and to aid those persons least able to afford higher utility costs. WAP provides funds to conserve energy in the homes of low‐income people, with emphasis on elderly, handicapped, and families with children. An automated energy audit, National Energy Audit (NEAT), is used to determine the most cost effective measures on single frame houses. General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the State of Arkansas, your household's annual income before taxes must not exceed $12,762 if one person lives in the household; $17,112 if two people live in the household; $21,462 if three people live in the household; $25,812 if four people live in the household; $30,162 if five people live in the household; $34,512 if six people live in the household; $38,862 if seven people live in the household; and $43,212 if more than seven people live in the household. Mississippi County Measures
Safe and affordable housing units in the community preserved or improved through construction, weatherization, or rehabilitation achieved by community action activity or advocacy. 32
M C A E O C
HEALTH and NUTRITION SERVICES
Commodity Food Distribution
Surplus foods such as rice, honey, beans and selected can goods are distributed to help supplement the diets of needy persons in eligible households. These foods are made available by the USDA and distributed periodically at various authorized sites. M C A E O C
HEALTHY START
Healthy Start Initiative
Works to reduce infant mortality and low birth
weight babies.
Healthy Start Initiative 2009
Annual Report
Maria Towery, Program Director
Mississippi County has approximately half of its population residing in the principal towns, Blytheville and Os‐
ceola. African Americans are disproportionately residing in these two communities, while whites are moving out of the cities to newer developments in the surrounding rural areas and smaller towns. Eight poverty remains a pervasive reality in the county, especially for single parent families and children. African Americans consistently are two to three times more likely than whites to be living in poverty. 33
a) Direct Health Care Services: During the Fiscal Year 2008, data regarding the number of all medical visits by all prenatal participants were 551 visits. 68 medical visits were made by all post‐partum participants. 259 medical visits were made by all infant/child participants regarding well baby/pediatric clinic visits. This number does not in‐
clude the emergency visits to hospitals. On the other hand, 263 visits were made by adolescents (under the age of 17) receiving health care services. 95 participants received and have some form of family planning services. Finally, 141 women received women health services. b) Enabling Services: The Healthy Start data reflects one hundred and forty three families receiving services by the Healthy Start staff. Seventy‐three pregnant women were assisted by Case Management. Thirty‐three families were enrolled through Outreach Services. Ninety‐eight families received Parenting Skills Building/Education. Ninety‐nine families received Transportation Services to medical and social services appointments. One hundred and fifteen families received Counseling Services including WIC Services. Two consumers were placed in Housing Assistance, three consumers participated in job training, and one consumer was incarcerated. c) Population: Immunizations were provided to all 1,154 infants participants in the program. One hundred and three participants received public information and educational materials. d) Infrastructure Building: Eight consumers received training regarding consortium participation, program direction and decision‐making skills. Ten community representatives received training regarding the Healthy Start Program. Mississippi County Cancer Council Mission The Mississippi County Arkansas Cancer Council is committed to helping reduce cancer health disparities and providing cancer education in the community. 34
Objectives
Breast Care Education
To provide cancer awareness throughout Mississippi County. To provide cancer education. To provide FREE health screenings through health fairs. To provide support groups and community resources. To support cancer research. Community Events
Annual Cancer Awareness Day 2004 Arkansas Delta Bike Ride for Cancer Relay for Life – (Blytheville & Osceola) Christmas Parade ‐ (Blytheville & Osceola) Springtime on the Mall – Blytheville “Tobacco Kills” Poster Contest for Mississippi County School Children Cancer Awareness Day Provides:
informational booths cancer education seminars child immunization educational material screenings for breast and prostate cancer AIDS testing Other health screenings healthy snacks free gifts and entertainment physicals and dental screening (children entering the Head Start program and kindergarten) Prostate
Screenings
Mississippi County Cancer Council Partners Blytheville School District UAMS Cancer Outreach Center South Mississippi County School District Blytheville & Osceola Health Department 35
Mississippi County Cancer Council Partners Blytheville School District UAMS Cancer Outreach Center South Mississippi County School District Blytheville & Osceola Health Department Mississippi County Coalition for Tobacco‐free Arkansas Bethesda Cancer Center Arkansas Northeastern College Dr. Scott Fergus Dr. Steven Pirtle Dr. Van Parker American Cancer Society Dr. C.E. Campbell Pediatric & Teens Medical Center Sponsors
Mississippi County Cancer Council Winthrop P. Rockefellers Cancer Institute Mississippi County Arkansas Economic Opportunity Commission, Inc. Blytheville Intermediate/Boys & Girls Club of Mississippi County, Unit 2 Mississippi County Electric Cooperative Bethesda Cancer Center Sudbury Broadcasting KAMJ 93.9 FM 36
Cancer Awareness Day -Vendors
Arkansas Human Development Corporation Arkansas Northeastern College‐ Adult Education Arkansas Northeastern College – TRIO Blytheville Dental Health Delta Sigma Theta – HIV Awareness Families, Inc. Bethesda Cancer Center Legacy Hospice MCAEOC Early Childhood Education Department – Head Start MCAEOC Healthy Start Initiative MCAEOC Housing Department Mississippi County Charitable Health Clinic Mississippi County Cancer Council Mississippi County Cooperative Extension Mississippi County Health Department Pediatric & Teen Medical Center Spirit of Excellence Ministry – Medical Assistant Program Supreme Fitness Boot Camp The First Tee of NE Arkansas The Haven Tobacco Coalition UAMS World Changing 37
M C A E O C
HOUSING SERVICES
Housing MCAEOC operates a Housing Rehabilitation Program and provides affordable rental housing for low income individuals. It also develops new multi‐family units by using the HOME Program, low‐income tax credits, and the Housing and Urban Development Program (HUD) as well as new single family Housing Down Payment Assistance. Single family homes constructed with the help of the MCAEOC Housing Program 38
Housing Preservation
MCAEOC proposes to rehabilitate eight (8) homes within Census Tract 101, 103, and the southern half of Census Tract 102 in the City of Blytheville. Approximately 40% of the homes in these two Census Tracts are owner occu‐
pied; however, many are in poor repair. Almost all the owner occupied homes in this area are over 25 years with most homes valued at under $50,000. Repair problems in these older homes include structural discrepancies, drafty windows, doors, and floors, incomplete or faulty plumbing electrical problems, leaking roofs, and access problems for owners with physical limi‐
tations. According to the 2000 Census, over 36.3% of households live below the poverty level in Mississippi County Enterprise Community. Within the targeted Census Tracts, the concentration of poverty within these neighborhoods is high. The target population for the Housing Preservation Grant (HPG) assistance are those very low‐income families whose homes are substandard, but repairable. Basic health and safety needs, warmth, shelter, and sanitary plumbing con‐
cerns will be given priority, along with handicap accessibility. Due to the concern of local elected officials, area ministers and residents of the target area, there is considerable support for a Housing Preservation Project. Without HPG assistance, the homes of these low‐income families will continue to deteriorate due to financial limitation of the homeowners. None of the housing units to be repaired by the Housing Preservation are on the Historic Register, nor do any appear to have potential for inclusion. The planned rehabilitation will not conspicuously change the exterior design of the residences. See Section 1944.683(b)(2) for information which will be maintained on file for each housing unit rehabilitated through this project. M C A E O C
SOCIAL SERVICES
Mississippi County Neighborhood Service Centers The Mississippi County Services offers the following services based on income and household sizes: LIHEAP Utility Assistance Crisis Intervention Assistance Commodity Food Assistance Emergency Food & Shelter Salvation Army Program LI HEAP Utility Assistance This assistance starts in January each year and helps clients with electric, gas and propane bills. When ap‐
proved the money is sent to the utility company of the clients’ choice. Emergency Food & Shelter Funds are received two times per year to assist low‐income families in emergency situations to assist in ob‐
39
taining food, shelter, and other necessities for a limited period of time. M C A E O C
SOCIAL SERVICES cont
Employment Services Employment counseling and workshops, job referrals, employer contacts, and follow‐up activities are provided to those seeking employment. Services for the Homeless This program is geared toward homeless or displaced families and individuals. Food, shelter/housing, transporta‐
tion, emergency medical supplies, and/or basic necessities are provided, as circumstances warrant. Referrals for assistance in employment, income maintenance, medical treatment, and other transitional support services are also provided. Small Business Lending Program MCAEOC operates a micro‐lending program for small business development and expansion in the Mississippi County Enterprise Community. Transportation Provides a means of affordable transportation to area residents for employment, health care, and educational ser‐
vices. Good Samaritan Food Good Samaritan Fund is an Emergency Assistance Demonstration Program funded by Blytheville First United Meth‐
odist Church. The funds are used to provide assistance on a case‐by‐case basis to alleviate emergency needs of residents of the Greater Blytheville area. Toys for Children Provides toys for needy children. Youth Development Cultural enrichment, social development, and recreational events are provided for youths. Cancer
Awareness
Day
Community Participation
Staff from UAPB visits local Schools and
workforce
MCAEOC, staff participating in Job Fair
40
41