Step Forward Head Start offers a holistic approach to learning for children through a combination of classroom instruction, learning through play and a rich educational environment that engages children.
Music, which can support the emotional and linguistic development of young children1, is often incorporated into lessons in Head Start classrooms. That’s why it is no surprise that a Head Start alumna who grew into a singer, developed a love for music early.
Brianne Bryant, a vocal artist who goes by the stage name “Lady Bri,” was enrolled at the then CEOGC Cory Head Start location after her mother, Charmine Wilson, heard about the program's benefits.
“I got the last spot,” Wilson recalled. “I promised to do everything I knew to be an engaged parent.”
Wilson kept her promise. One week after enrolling her daughter in Head Start, she joined the Parent Policy Committee and eventually went on to accept a full-time job with the agency. Today, Wilson has worked with Step Forward for more than 20 years. She is currently a Quality Assurance Manager for Step Forward’s Head Start program.
“I work in parent engagement. It's nothing like being able to be the voice for parents,” Wilson said.
Brianne noted having a parent who works in early education had a positive effect on her life throughout school and into adulthood.
“There is no way not to have Head Start in the fabric of our family because of my mother’s stalworth,” she explained. “She applied that same passion into our education. She was very involved with making whatever we were learning was applied.”
You may have heard Brianne’s voice before and not realized it. She has performed at several Cleveland sporting events and had her original music featured in Super Bowl commercials, shows like Good Morning America, in movies and even at the Olympics.
“To be able to sing original music in front of 20,000 people...I'm humbled by every opportunity that comes from music,” Brianne said.
Wilson spoke directly to parents during her interview, encouraging them to look for early education options. She hopes they know that Head Start is a one-stop-shop.
When a child is enrolled in one of Step Forward’s Head Start programs, the family is matched with a Family Service Worker who conducts a needs assessment. The Family Service Worker helps the family access other necessary programs and services. Parents are involved and have a voice in designing the services to meet their needs.
“Head Start has not just now, but for over 50 years, been rooted in getting us ready for the next stage in life,” Wilson said.
Learn more about enrolling your child in Head Start here.
Step Forward Head Start is hiring! 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, nutrition 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.
1. News you can use: Music (part 1) (2021) ECLKC. Available at: https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/curriculum/article/news-you-can-use-music-part-1 (Accessed: November 28, 2022).