Good afternoon,
As Lane County enters Phase 1 of the gradual reopening of our community, cautious optimism grows, as does the need to hold steady in our adherence to safe practices and a positive attitude.
The ongoing virtual services and individual family contacts are having an impact. Regional Manager Karen Hill is a member of the DHS Community Review Board (CRB). Sam Tarazamel, the team leader, told Karen he has been hearing from foster parents in other CRB meetings what a great job HS has been doing with virtual visits, resource information and family support. His opinion is that HS is ahead of the curve, and holds us up as an example of what can be done. Karen is feeling Head Start proud, as we all can!
At Policy Council, an Early Head Start Mom was pleased with her weekly visit from her teacher. The teacher does an activity with the child, and then spends twenty minutes checking in with Mom about the family well being and possible needs. A member asked if anyone does virtual cooking activities. I shared the recent “visit” where the home visitor walked the parent/child through making a smoothie! Thanks for continuing to connect with students and families, and for letting them know you care!
Part day staff will be checking in IT devices Thursday and Friday. Thanks and appreciation to the IT Team for providing technical assistance and support to all of us throughout the entire year!
As you have heard, all Oregon state agencies have been tasked by the Governor to develop budget scenarios for the 2020-21 fiscal year that reflect a 17% across the board decrease in funds. March 20, the State Revenue Forecast is released, providing an accurate picture of our finances. This is the beginning of a process that includes prioritizing services and negotiating allocations. I will continue weekly updates throughout the summer. Please visit the HSOLC website to stay up to date with the process.
Here’s to a healthy weekend and a Community that works together to support each other!
Warmly, Annie
