My Experience with the Programs - Tenesha Cooper

I was able to get approved and enrolled for the SIUE Head Start program in Belleville after being placed on the waiting list. The process was quick, and the no fee pricing was extremely helpful, but the part time days/hours were not beneficial with my work schedule.

After doing research on my own, I was able to get my son enrolled in the preschool program through our local school district. The enrollment process was efficient and simple, the classrooms were very clean and organized, and the staff were very helpful and beneficial in helping my son reach age-appropriate milestones. The preschool program also tested and assisted with other services such as speech therapy and occupational therapy.

I was only able to enroll in the 3-day program, as other time slots were already filled (I believe this was due to the number of classrooms/teachers available), but the program provided standard and efficient classroom etiquette, social skills, and academic goals that he would be able to advance on into his grade school years.

Overall, I think both programs are very beneficial in providing early childhood development, care, and resources, and should remain readily available and affordable for working parents.