For ECKAN Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Lyon County, next fall’s programming is expected to run similar to last year.
East Central Kansas Economic Opportunity Corporation (ECKAN) operates Early Head Start and Head Start programs in the county. The programs are free and educational, meant for low-income families to access parent involvement resources and early childhood education. Head Start services children three to five, while Early Head services pregnant mothers, infants and children up to three.
Shelli McElfresh, ECKAN Area Manager, said that around 120 local children and families receive Head Start and Early Head Start services. 25 staff members are employed at the site.
According to PBS reporting, Robert Kennedy, Health and Human Services Secretary, stated that the Head Start would not receive any cuts to funding, despite earlier staff shortages and funding freezes. The program was approved for a flat budget - the same amount as last year.
Clara Cox, ECKAN Head Start Director, said that flat funding would only affect cost-of-living increases.
“We won't get an increase, we probably won't be able to do cost of living raises, but we should have the same funding, which is great,” Cox said. “In this climate, we're super happy if we're flat funded.”
As of now, the plan is for full enrollment and a regular program schedule. Head Start has fulfilled 80-90% of its enrollment goal for the upcoming school year.
Cox stated that Head Start and Early Start are anticipating the “status quo.”
“We're not anticipating anything out of the norm happening,” Cox said. “We're planning on opening at the same time. We're planning on being fully enrolled. We're also hiring staff.”
Head Start and Early Head Start applications opened June 3. Head Start plans to begin August 18, while Early Head Start operates year round. To register, call 620-343-3270 or 620-342-2304.
“We're thankful to be there in Lyon County,” Cox said. “We’ve built some great partnerships. We don't plan on going anywhere, so we're excited about the future.”
By: Amanda Davis, July 8th, 2025
Read the article here