What is the Policy Council?
- Elected group of parents and community members that share the responsibility for overseeing the delivery of services to families in New Directions Early Head Start.
- Council members have the authority and opportunity to participate in shared decision-making about the design and operation of the program.
What does the Policy Council do?
- Represent families enrolled in NDEHS.
- Establish program policies.
- Identify goals and objectives for NDEHS.
- Review financial statements and explore program resources.
- Determine ways to solve any complaints about the program.
- Serve as a link to the parent committees.
- Foster positive community relationships.
Who is on the Policy Council?
- At least 51% of the members of the policy council must be parents of currently enrolled children enrolled in the program.
- Representatives from community organizations who share in the mission of New Directions Early Head Start and former parents make up the other members of the policy council.
What does the Policy Council require of its members?
- A one year commitment.
- Attend five policy council meetings per year.
- Attend trainings throughout the year on various issues related to the policy council.
- Participation on a policy council committee.
What does serving on the Policy Council offer its members?
- Learn new skills.
- Gain self-confidence.
- Learn more about New Directions Early Head Start.
- Meet new people.
