Children celebrated as they start school

Tulalip Early Head Start students move on to preschool

By Andrew Gobin, Tulalip News

TULALIP – The Parent Committee of the Tulalip Early head Start program gathered with staff and students Tuesday, August 12, at the Tulalip Amphitheatre to celebrate their children as they transition into preschool, beginning their academic careers.

“I think it’s a great event where we can honor our children. The parents and staff worked together to make this event happen,” said Alicia Horne, who chairs the EHS parent committee.

The program curriculum is focused on developing basic skills through sensory learning. As children advance in academia, these first few years are crucial in determining how a child will perform in school. The EHS staff are committed to preparing these young children to excel in school.

As much as the event is for students, parents take the time to honor the staff for the work that they do with the tribal children.

Tulalip Councilwoman Marie Zackuse said, “Thank you for setting that foundation for our kids, helping them towards success in their education.”

“I think it’s a great way to honor the teachers for what they do for our children,” said Felicia Holland, one of the parents on the committee.

Children enter the EHS program as early as two, and move through three levels of the program. When they do move on, they are entering the beginnings of public school. Many of the students will advance to the Tulalip Montessori or Tulalip ECEAP.

The event is funded solely through fund raising. In addition to honoring the staff and advancing students, there was an art auction of student work in an effort to continue fundraising for other EHS events. Two walls featured traditional hand drums with unique designs that the parents and students worked on together.