Federal regulations require each Head Start program to establish a Policy Council. The responsibility for giving direction to the Head Start program is shared by the Board of Directors, the Policy Council, and the staff. The specific duties and responsibilities of the PC are outlined in the Federal Regulations known as the Performance Standards. The Policy Council shares in the following responsibilities:
- Approve funding applications
- Review finances
- Planning
- Personnel actions
- Development of program policies
- Program improvements
The Head Start Policy Council is made up of parents/guardians and representatives of the community. Elected representatives serve a one-year term, from October to September and no member may serve more than three terms. Each center elected representatives and be reached through Family Services.