Amelia Doty of Boise, Idaho remembers how Head Start gave her the confidence to be excited for Kindergarten when other children were nervous and scared. Amelia graduated from Meridian High School, a member of the National Honor Society, and maintained her confidence throughout life, noting how she is the only one in her family who went out of state for college. Indeed, she is the only one of her sisters who attended Head Start. Amelia studies Political Science and Theology at Seattle University where she has been a Resident Advisor for two years. After graduating, she intends to join a service program, such as Peace Corps or Teach America. She plans to continue her studies in Theology at the graduate level. Amelia has been involved in many service projects including the “Children’s Literacy Project” which provides tutors to children in low-income schools, and the YMCA “Splash” program which offers swimming lessons to youth from low income families.

In addition to academics, Amelia’s other memories of Head Start include the valuable socialization she received, the lesson of “use your manners” at lunch, and also receiving immunizations at the center. Having had the opportunity to participate in early childhood research projects, Amelia values how Head Start helps parents find the resources that they need so that they can give the same advantages to their children that families with living wages can secure. “Over all, Head Start gave me the opportunity for a jump start on my education; giving me the opportunity to be at the same level or ahead of other children.”

Amelia’s father went on to serve on the board of directors for Friends of Children and Families Head Start.