Head Start opens doors to community, 'pinks' it up

Students patiently wait to receive pink balloons from their teacher Tuesday on the playground of Sikeston Head Start. Students and staff released the balloons in honor of their "pink up" day which recognized Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Head Start Awareness Month. The school also held a community open house on Tuesday. (Leonna Heuring, Staff)

SIKESTON -- Several parents and community members turned out for an open house Tuesday at Sikeston Head Start.

Holly Weaver, whose 3-year-old and 5-year-old daughters attend the center, was on hand for the occasion.

"It's a very good program for kids," Weaver said. "I devote my life to the Center."'

The public on Tuesday was invited for refreshments and to tour the classrooms.

In addition, the open house served as "pink up" event with students, staff and donning pink in honor of both Head Start Awareness Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. A balloon release also took place on the playground.

Also on Tuesday, the Center celebrated "Martha Day," which is in honor of retiree Martha Muller of Portageville, who worked for many years as Head Start's social services family and community partnership specialist.

Currently, 119 children ages 3 to 5 are enrolled at Sikeston Head Start.

"We try very hard to be a model for them and set good examples," Sherri Ragan, director of Sikeston Head Start, said.

"We try to educate them as much as we can because right now -- at this young age -- is when we have to get that education in them."

For those who missed Tuesday's open house, they can still stop by the Center for a quick tour or sit-down with Ragan, she said.

"I encourage the community to come in and see how wonderful these children are doing in this atmosphere and environment," Ragan said.

She said those who want to learn more about Head Start should contact her at any time.

"We're not just baby sitters; we're really doing great things here," Ragan said. "Believe it or not, we do make a difference in children's lives."

For the complete story, see Wednesday's Standard Democrat.