Luzerne County Head Start provided Samantha with a supportive environment to step out of her comfort zone. Meanwhile, her mother Heidi was beginning a career making a difference in the lives of other families.

Samantha suffered from severe anxiety as a child, particularly separation anxiety. Samantha’s doctor suggested putting her in daycare or preschool, but the family couldn’t afford it. They qualified for Pre-K Counts at LCHS, which gave Samantha the start she needed.

At first, Samantha struggled with anxiety in the classroom, even hiding when the school nurse visited for screenings. Over time, she adjusted to the environment while learning to manage her anxiety. Samantha developed a close bond with her teacher Miss Pat, who not only eased the transition, but encouraged her to socialize and develop independence.

“I believe Head Start impacted my life by giving me that strong foundation of learning and many techniques for both myself and my mom to use when I struggled most with my anxiety,” Samantha said.

During this period, Heidi was pursuing her college degree. She began volunteering at LCHS, which turned into a classroom substitute role. This led to working as an associate teacher once she graduated. Later, she pivoted to home visiting as an Early Head Start family educator.

Heidi worked with families who were nervous about sending their children to preschool. She shared her own experiences, which lessened their worries about the transition. Today, Heidi is a family worker, which blends her love of supporting families with being in the classroom.

“I am thankful for Head Start for many reasons,” Heidi said. “One is for supporting me and my family when my child was part of the program and giving me the opportunity to help families like mine.”

Years later, Samantha received a Head Start Alumni Scholarship to continue her education. Now 21, she is in the 1-2-1 Nursing Dual Degree Program with King’s College and Luzerne County Community College. She even had the opportunity to catch up with Miss Pat when her class came to LCHS for observations.

“I want to thank Head Start for being an important part in my education journey and I would like to thank my teachers for their kindness and support,” Samantha said.

By Brooke Williams, Community Advocate