THE EDUCATION EXCHANGE

Hello, My name is Lisa Richardson. This year marks my 25th year in education, and my journey has truly come full circle! I began in a Head Start classroom, where I spent 13 wonderful years learning right alongside little ones. In 2013, I joined the ESC as a Head Start Education Specialist, and the following year I helped launch EcoLand Early Learning Center, where I served for nearly a decade. Even while at EcoLand, I ensured that the Head Start vision and philosophy were always at the heart of the work we did. In 2023, I returned to Head Start as an Education Specialist, and I’m excited to now serve as your Education Coordinator. My heart has always been—and will always be—in early childhood education, and I’m grateful to continue supporting the teachers, children, and families who make Head Start so special. My hope is to be on campus with you some this year, but whether I’m there in person or working behind the scenes, please know that my heart is with you.

The true strength of our education team shines through our Education Specialists. They are the hands and feet of this work—walking alongside you, serving with dedication, and bringing their expertise to every classroom they touch. Their passion for children, commitment to teachers, and deep belief in the mission of Head Start are evident in everything they do. Whether it’s offering encouragement during a challenging moment, celebrating growth and progress, or sharing strategies that spark joy and curiosity in the classroom, they give their very best every single day. They are more than specialists—they are mentors, problem-solvers, cheerleaders, and advocates for both teachers and children. The impact of their work reaches far beyond lesson plans or observations; it shapes the culture of our classrooms and inspires a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.

And last, but certainly not least, is our amazing support staff. These ladies are truly the glue that holds us all together. You may not see their faces every day, but you know their names from emails and hear their voices when you call our office. Behind the scenes, they are the steady hands and caring hearts that keep everything running smoothly, making sure every detail is taken care of so we can do our best work for children and families.

Together, this team brings a wealth of expertise in early childhood education and a steadfast dedication to the mission of Head Start.

Our Head Start Teacher Manual is packed with helpful resources designed to support you throughout the year. You can access it anytime by clicking the button above.

The Head Start Back to School guide offers valuable information to help you start the year strong, with a special focus on the first 45 days of school. Just click the picture beside this message to explore it.

August in Review:

Our Education Team jumped right in last month, completing over 280 face to face visits! They were right there in the classrooms with you—helping set up learning environments, organizing materials, and aligning lesson plans—so both you and your students could start the year strong.

Looking Ahead to September:

This month, specialists are getting even more intentional in their support. They’re diving into classroom management strategies that help create safe, nurturing spaces and exploring instructional practices that keep children engaged and excited to learn. Whether it’s fine-tuning lesson plans, aligning curriculum, or assistance in creating safe and nuturing learning environments, specialists are working with you to make sure every child gets the support they need.

Walking Together:

Step by step, our team is here alongside you—building relationships, offering guidance, and cheering on your successes. Together, we’re making sure every Head Start child has the chance to thrive—not just this month, but all year long!

CLASS Tip of the Month:

Try narrating your thought process aloud during small group activities—this boosts instructional support and models problem-solving.

Curriculum Corner:

September focus—Math Talk. Encourage students to use number words during routines (snack time, lining up, counting blocks).

Strategy in Action:

Use open-ended questions during story time (e.g., “Why do you think the character did that?” or “What might happen next?”). This encourages deeper thinking, builds language, and supports higher-order skills.

Family Idea:

Send home a “Shape Hunt” activity—families look for shapes around their home and neighborhood, then students share in class.

Community Partner Spotlight:

Local library story times are back! Share the calendar with families to encourage literacy beyond the classroom.

Self-Care Tip:

Set a “transition ritual” after work—listening to music, short walk, or journaling—to separate home and work.

Team Idea:

At your next staff meeting, try a gratitude circle where each person shares one positive from the week.

Tip of the Month:

Reinforce handwashing routines before meals, after outdoor play, and after bathroom use. Consistent practice helps reduce illness and teaches lifelong healthy habits.

Safety Reminder:

With cooler mornings and warmer afternoons, remind families to send children in layered clothing so they’re comfortable throughout the day.

Classroom Practice:

Ensure toothbrushing habits are practiced daily and are reflected on your daily schedules.

• September 1st - Start Portfolio Collection
• September 15th - CIRCLE Progress Monitoring Wave 1 Begins
• September 16th - Head Start/EHS CPR/First Aid/AED
• September 16th - Head Start New Teacher Community of Practice (COP)

• October 3rd - CIRCLE Progressing Monitoring Wave 1 Ends
• October 16th - Head Start/EHS CPR/First Aid/AED
• October 28th - Head Start CIRCLE Training Day 1
• October 29th - Head Start Master Teacher Fall Cohort

📄 We encourage all new Head Start teachers to attend our Community of Practice (COP) workshops.

📄 Click the PDF below for details and training dates.

❓ If you have any questions, reach out to your Education Specialist.

💡 Remember: Head Start will cover substitute pay when your new teachers attend these sessions.

➡️ The first New Teacher COP is September 16th. Contact your Education Specialist today for registration information!

Thank you for the incredible work you do every day. Your dedication builds a foundation for lifelong learning and success for our children and families.