Ivory Conley’s mother taught her to count by piling up beans and pecans on the kitchen table. Ivory knew how to add, subtract and multiply by the time she started school…

Most people are familiar with what the program does for children, Conley said. Youngsters enrolled in Head Start learn early education basics such as letters, numbers and color names. They also learn social skills necessary to transition to kindergarten and a formal learning environment.

Yet not everyone is aware of another Head Start priority — involving parents in their children’s education both at home and at school…

“Educating the parent is stability for the child forever, not just five years.” …

Another way Head Start empowers parents is by working with them to develop “dreams and wishes” for themselves. The word “goals” can seem too lofty to people with little or no reserves, Conley said. Yet everyone has a dream. With a little coaching, families can develop steps toward reaching that dream…

“It taught me the value of sticking by my kids, no matter what. As a parent, I’m responsible for my child — not the school district.”

Conley’s parents also were strong role models, she said. The late Riley and Othella West were passionate home educators, he passing on his love of language and she her love of math.

Source: Morning News
http://www.nwaonline.net/articles/2007/01/27/our_town/012807conley.txt