West Plains Head Start

05/14/2026

This week, our Head Start families had the chance to participate in a hands-on vacuum sealing class focused on food preservation, meal planning, and making the most of their grocery budget. Families learned practical ways to keep fresh foods longer, reduce food waste, and prepare meals that can help stretch resources at home.

Because of this grant-funded opportunity, several of our families also went home with vacuum sealing kits to continue using these skills in their own kitchens! 🥦🍓🥩

We love being able to provide experiences that not only educate, but also empower our families with tools they can use every day. Thank you for investing in the health and well-being of our Head Start community!

05/13/2026

Shout out to Howell Rural Fire Department for making water day amazing! They always love on our kids every chance they get!! 

05/11/2026

Today we are celebrating FOUR amazing members of our team on their college graduations! 🎓✨

Two of our staff members have earned their Associate degrees, and two have earned their Bachelor degrees! We know how much hard work, late nights, dedication, and perseverance it takes to balance college while continuing to serve children and families each day.

We are incredibly proud of each of them and thankful to have such passionate, driven professionals on our team. Their commitment to growing both personally and professionally makes a difference in the lives of the children and families we serve every single day.

Please help us congratulate these wonderful ladies on this huge accomplishment!

05/01/2026

Receive safe sleep education & a FREE pack n play with our Safe Sleep Class. This class is for pregnant mothers in their 3rd trimester or parents with a child up to 6 months.

To register text 417-204-4407.

05/01/2026

04/27/2026

As we move through severe weather season, we want to remind families that the safety of children and staff is always our highest priority. Each center has emergency procedures in place for severe weather, including shelter-in-place/lockdown procedures during tornado warnings.

If a warning is issued while your child is at the center, staff will move children to designated storm shelters and remain there until it is safe. Please know these procedures are practiced and designed to keep everyone safe.

Once shelter procedures begin, doors will remain locked so staff and children can remain together safely.

We also closely monitor weather during transportation times and will make adjustments to bus routes when needed to avoid unnecessary risk.

Please take a moment to talk with your child’s center if you have questions about emergency procedures. Being prepared and informed helps keep everyone safe.

Thank you for trusting us with your children. Stay weather aware and stay safe

04/15/2026

Check Learning Genie for more information coming soon!

03/27/2026

West Plains Public Library will sponsor an egg hunt for children ages birth through kindergarten on Thursday, April 2, from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in the children's library. All participants in this age group will receive a free book in addition to the eggs they find. We hope to see you there!