IVEDC provides opportunities at all ages through Head Start

By Editor | August 21, 2025 |

By Steven Spencer

It’s time for kids to head back to school, and with the help of the Illinois Valley Economic Development Corporation and the Head Start Program, children of all ages are able to work on the skills they need.
The Head Start Program works specifically with children from birth to five years old to provide educational services, health and mental-health wellness, dental and nutrition services, family engagement opportunities, and services to children with special needs.
In the preschool program, children ages three to five receive the structure of a classroom five days a week at the recently renovated Susnig Center while focusing on educational, social, physical and developmental needs.
Avnie Pohlman, with IVEDC, said the free federally funded program is designed to prepare children for school and beyond as IVEDC advocates work closely with families to provide support and guidance.
The program is offered from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the week, which Pohlman said provides an added benefit to families in an area where most preschool programs are typically half a day.
Pohlman said that Head Start children are offered consistency through a predictable schedule and structured routines. Children have a safe place to grow and learn through hands-on experiences and intentional learning opportunities. Teachers are there to help children and prepare them to learn. Head Start focuses on social and emotional skills, helping children gain important skills to succeed not only in school, but in life, and each child gets individualized support based on their needs and the needs of their family.
“We also provide breakfast, lunch, and a snack. We do a storytime with the Jerseyville Public Library once a month,” Polhman said, noting that there are several field trips throughout the year. “We encourage parents to attend these events along with their child, providing families with brand new experiences.”
Since moving to the Susnig from Otterville, the program has been able to increase their offerings and involve families even more.
“We love being in Jerseyville. Families also love that we are in Jerseyville. It offers them so many more opportunities to volunteer and participate in learning experiences with their child,” Pohlman said. “Every year, we provide services and support to approximately 30 families in and around Jerseyville. This year, with the opening of our second classroom, we will be able to support 30 children and their families at the center alone.”
Pohlman said early childhood education is incredibly important, and the program is designed to help children from low-income households receive that necessary education at a critical age.
“Early childhood education is incredibly important and provides children with the foundation needed for a lifetime of learning. 90% of brain development happens before age 5, making it a critical time for cognitive development and emotional growth. Without these essential skills, children struggle and often fall behind,” Pohlman said.
The Head Start Program accepts applications year-round and serves Jersey County as well as Calhoun, Greene and Macoupin counties.
The program is now accepting applications. Those interested can call 217-839-4431 or call or text 217-710-9360.
Illinois Valley Economic Development Corporation offers a number of other services to families in the area, including senior programs, the community day services program, and energy assistance programs.
For more information on the Illinois Valley Economic Development Corporation as well as their services and programs visit ilvalley-edc.org or call 217-839-4431.