Policy Council Tool Kit

Head Start Program Performance Standards

Sections Applying to Program Governance

45CFR1304.50
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/hsb/performance/130450PS.htm
   Each grantee and delegate agency is required to establish a policy group and a well-functioning governing body. In accordance with Head Start legislation, regulations and policies, they share the responsibility for overseeing the delivery of high quality services to children and families. The formal structure of shared governance is described. The composition and responsibilities of policy groups, Parent Committees and governing bodies are outlined. Involvement in the Policy Council and Policy Committee and the local Parent Committees empowers the active participation of parents and other community representatives.

 

Prism

Section G- Program Governance

PRISM Guide and PRISM All Instruments 2006
http://www.headstartinfo.org/publications/PRISM_2006/index.htm
      PRISM Guide and All Instruments 2006 reflect a number of changes. Grantees, Federal and non-Federal Team Leaders and reviewers use this resource in reviewing and monitoring Head Start programs. New elements in the process include: a new software system; focus on compliance with Head Start standards and other requirements; protocols that provide an overarching framework as well as detailed guidance for reviewers; revised Fiscal Checklist; modified Core Questions.

Program Governance

Program Governance Web Cast
http://www.headstartinfo.org/program_governance.htm
      The September 17, 2004 web cast, transcripts posted here, focused on expectations for use of Program Governance funding. It included the opportunity to hear from local program leaders and identified resources and ideas to support effective shared governance.

 

Q and A on Program Governance

Program Governance
http://www.headstartinfo.org/publications/hsbulletin65/hs65_03.htm
     Program Governance is section 1304.50 of the Head Start Program Performance Standards. Opportunities for parents to be involved in shared decision-making activities with the governing body and staff include elected participation on the Policy Council or Policy Committee. In addition, every parent who has a child enrolled in Head Start is automatically a member of the Parent Committee.

Publication

Linking Our Voices A Training Program for Head Start Policy Councils (English/Spanish)
     With knowledge and skills increased and attitudes and behavior influenced, current and prospective parents and community representatives are helped to become effective Policy Council members. The training package includes a videotape, a facilitator's manual, a set of participant workshop materials, and a set of overhead masters with which to make transparencies.

 

Fostering Program Governance

Fostering Program Governance
http://www.headstartinfo.org/cgi-bin/pubcatstore.cfm?CatID=169&do=detail
     Head Start Directors, managers, parents and volunteers are oriented to the duties and responsibilities of Policy Councils and boards. Program and organizational planning are practiced; assessment tools are reviewed; shared-decision making and issues related to working with volunteers are discussed.

 

Virtual Resource

Moving Ahead
Head Start 101

History, Values, and Regulations
With this leadership training activity program, participants gain an understanding of how Head Start has evolved over time and the ways in which the program's core values are reflected in its services. Program administration and funding are addressed also. (PDF version ) (Word, 186KB) FREE WORD Viewer

 

Other Resources

Robert's Rules of Order
http://www.constitution.org/rror/rror--00.htm
     General rules and procedures for policy-making bodies to conduct business are delineated. Motions, voting, debate and the duties of various officers are addressed also.