Original Date: 04/22/1996
Revision Date: 01/18/2007

The Chattanooga Head Start program has also "recycled" older buildings in its efforts to provide much-needed classroom space. This space was obtained by taking over three City and two county schools that had been closed. The ability to undertake these efforts was supported by a collaboration with community partners in obtaining funding for the renovations, a new facility, land lease, and shared space.

The new facility, built in the section of the City where there was the greatest need, has space for 67 children with six classrooms, a nursery, and office spaces for counselors, speech therapists, and teacher preparation. The other renovated facility has space for 45 children and a shared space has a capacity of 53.

The Chattanooga Head Start Program has received state and national recognition for its program, and was one of the first 13 to receive a Parent Child Center Grant. It was also one of the first 36 to receive a grant for an Infant, Toddlers, and Pregnant Women Program. The program has been able to initiate a "wraparound" child care program by receiving a state Department of Education Grant and a state grant for an Adult Literacy Program. There are currently 75 families participating in these vital programs. The highly successful Head Start program has been able to accomplish the reuse of buildings and establish new initiatives due to community partners, volunteers, and staff who work in the programs.

For more information see the Point of Contact for this survey.