by: Noreen Dinwieddie and Jenifer Jonika In the brisk winter week of January 22-26, Noreen Dinwieddie, HS/Grants Administration Director and Jennifer Jonika, Executive Director embarked on a significant journey to the heart of the nation’s capital, Washington D.C., representing the Michigan Head Start Association (MHSA) at the NHSA Leadership Institute. Noreen, an elected Director on the MHSA and a member of the Governmental Affairs Committee, and Jennifer, dedicated to advocating for the cause, were part of a group that sought to address critical issues facing Head Start programs across the country. The primary objective of their visit was to meet with Senators and elected Congress Representatives, presenting the concerns of the Head Start community and advocating for continued support. Although Senators Stabenow, Peters, and Congresswoman Rashida Talib were not available, their Executive Assistants graciously welcomed the delegation. They assured Noreen, Jennifer, and their … [Read more...]
Emmauel Israel Hired as Center Leader at the Hiveley Early Childhood Education Center
Emmanuel Israel was recently hired as Center Leader at our Hiveley Early Childhood Education Center. With close to 10 years of experience in early childhood education, and male/father engagement, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. Emmanuel Israel, BSc (Psych), IECMH-E received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Bellevue University and is attending Eastern Michigan University to obtain a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education. Also, he has earned the MI-AIMH Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement® as an Early Childhood Family Associate! He is the FIRST African American Professional to earn this new Endorsement and the FIRST male professional to earn this Endorsement! His Starfish journey began in 2014 as a parent and was hired in 2015 as a Father Engagement Specialist. Since, he’s held positions as Disability Assistant, Family Service Guide, Teacher, Education Coach and now Center Leader. Prior to coming to Starfish Family … [Read more...]