Jessica Suda Baab never hesitates to share her Head Start story.
“Whenever anyone mentions Head Start, I burst with joy and enthusiastically proclaim my love for the program, and how it changed my life,” she said. “I am glad I never have to know what my life would be like had I not attended. I truly don’t think I would be where I am today without it.”
Growing up in Dorrance, Jessica attended Luzerne County Head Start from 1990 to 1992, first at Rice Elementary School in Mountain Top, then at the Nanticoke Center.
“My mom was single-handedly raising my three older brothers and me while working full time, advocating for my oldest brother who was struggling with the challenging gift of dyslexia, and navigating a difficult divorce from my father who was battling alcoholism,” she said. “While there was no shortage of love in our home, my mom knew that the encouraging support and structure from an early learning center would have a great influence on me both emotionally and educationally.”
Jessica still remembers the positive impact her Head Start teacher had on her. It was the first time anyone other than her mother was enthusiastic about each of her accomplishments in class. That encouragement fueled Jessica to be creative, kind and curious.
“My mother was relieved and proud to see my potential recognized during a difficult time,” Jessica said. “My transition to kindergarten was a seamless one, and that was all because of Head Start.”
Jessica graduated from Crestwood High School in 2006 and earned her bachelor’s degree in theatre: general studies from West Chester University in 2010. After graduation, she began working at KISS Theatre Company (Kids Innovating Stage & Sound) in Wilkes-Barre and eventually became its executive director.
She credits Head Start with providing a strong foundation for her educational pursuits and being a creative catalyst for outlets like drawing, arts and crafts, and eventually theatre.
“During my adolescence, I never was 100% sure what I wanted to do for a career. The only thing I did know was that I enjoyed working with people, and I wanted to help make their lives better and easier,” Jessica said. “Head Start ensured that if I worked hard and was kind to those around me, I would be successful in whatever path I chose.”
Today, Jessica is the philanthropic services coordinator at the Luzerne Foundation. She also serves on the boards of KISS and the Fine Arts Fiesta. She lives in Mountain Top with her husband, Kevin, and their son, Brody.
Jessica is proud to be a Head Start alumna, and she remains grateful to the program for its meaningful and lifelong impact.
“I thought everyone attended Head Start. It did not occur to me until much later in my life that my family had to meet specific criteria to attend,” she said. “Head Start provided the equity to allow me to succeed alongside my fellow peers. I am most thankful for the friendships, encouragement, educational structure, and the relief and support it provided my mom during a difficult time.”
By Brooke Williams, Community Advocate