Efforts to improve the experience of families and young children at the Council have recently included work with the interagency coordinating team and several other communities of practice to utilize a systems integration survey that seeks to measure how integrated and connected the services and supports are in the region. This project, developed over the last several years with partners around the United States through the Center for the Study of Social Policy (CSSP) has resulted in respectful and productive conversations in the region, as well as redoubled efforts for partnership and cooperation. Look for an our blog about the efforts!
Conversations and efforts to better understand and educate the public about the Strengthening Families and Youth Thrive protective factors have been ongoing in the Lamoille Valley with partnerships with the interagency coordinating team, as well as the collaboration with the Vermont Department of Health.
As in Central Vermont, we were able to leverage both Help Me Grow and Early Learning Challenge funding to provide support for professional development of both groups and individuals, including parents and providers throughout the fall. We noted that seemingly small investments go a long way when flexible and rapid deployment is part of the plan. Because of that, the Council was able to respond quickly to support and encourage several key partners.
We’d like to echo the Central Vermont Council’s appreciation for the excellent STARS evolution information sessions, and the positive and incremental change the Child Development Division is bringing to the system.
The Lamoille Valley Council would like to also thank Sandra Cameron and the Winooski Valley Superintendents Association for their work to ensure that both private and public preK providers have improved systems and communication with one another and with the Agency of Education. Thank you Sandra!