Step Forward has informed some of its Head Start families that two of the agency’s Head Start sites are closing, effective immediately.
Due to facility issues near Lakeview Terrace Early Learning Center and Union Miles Early Learning Center, Step Forward will no longer offer Head Start services at either location.
“This decision was not made lightly, and we understand the potential impact it could have on families in those communities,” Antoinette Hawthorne, Step Forward Head Start’s Early Childhood Education Service Manager, said. “We have already contracted with a realtor and are looking for alternative Head Start locations.”
Despite the closures, Step Forward will now directly operate seven Head Start locations throughout Cuyahoga County, including Carl B. Stokes Early Learning Center, Friendly Inn Early Learning Center, George Forbes Early Learning Center, Louis Stokes Early Learning Center, Villa Early Learning Center, Willard Early Learning Center and William Patrick Day Early Learning Center. Each of the sites are rated five-stars through Ohio’s Step Up to Quality Initiative.
“Our children are precious assets,” Dr. Thea Wilson, Step Forward’s Vice President of Children and Families, stressed. “Their safety, along with the wellbeing of our dedicated staff, is paramount. As we envision a brighter future for our little ones, we will continue to prioritize healthy, safe and secure environments for their early education.”
Step Forward provided the families impacted by the Lakeview Terrace and Union Miles closures the addresses and contact information for nearby locations in hopes they would re-enroll.
“Our children’s development and future depend on the quality of their early learning experiences,” Dr. Wilson said. “Let’s come together, explore new possibilities, and embrace innovative solutions to ensure our children receive the nurturing and enriching education they deserve.”
The agency has made it their mission to provide services countywide, so that locations are convenient and accessible for families interested in quality early childhood education. Step Forward is enrolling for the 2023-2024 school year. Services are at no cost to income-eligible families.
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The agency is offering a sign-on bonus of $1,000 for full-time employees and $500 for part-time employees.
Positions include teachers, family service workers, education aides and more. Step Forward Head Start is looking for education staff passionate about preparing young students for the future and helping them develop a love for learning early. Take a step toward a new fulfilling career today! Learn more and apply to open positions here.