Caldwell Parish Early Childhood Network

08/07/2026

BIG news for Head Start! The Trump administration has proposed a new rule aimed at strengthening the promise of the program for the next generation.

The proposed rule on Reducing Federal Burden for Head Start Programs could create up to 236,000 new slots by:

✅Restoring flexibility and trust to Head Start programs to meet local needs

✅Reducing regulatory burden and administrative costs

✅Strengthening the focus on health and nutrition

Learn More: https://tinyurl.com/y4fa8r8f

07/30/2026

07/19/2026

Attention local businesses!! If you employ high school students under the age of 18, please see the poster below. It is now the employers responsibility to fill out the work permit for minors. If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Kristy Wells at [email protected].

07/15/2026

We will provide school supplies for both Pre-K 3 & Pre-K 4. Parents can purchase a clear back pack and nap mat if you choose or one will be provided. Students will need an extra change of clothes in a ziplock bag with their name on it.

07/15/2026

⭐️⭐️Teacher Spotlight⭐️⭐️

Hello! My name is Leah Jacks and this is my 12th year of teaching. I love working with the little children and watching them get excited to learn new things.

My husband and I have been married for 10 years and have two sons, Caleb and Case.

When I am not teaching I love to do crafty activities and travel with my family. My favorite place to visit is Disney World. Even though I rather be at Disney World, you will most likely find me at a ball park following my boys around.

I'm so excited to meet my new school babies very soon.

07/15/2026

⭐️⭐️Teacher Spotlight⭐️⭐️

Hi! I'm Mrs. Christian, I am born and raised here in our small town of Columbia and I am beginning my sixth year in education and my second year as a PreK-3 Head Start teacher. I truly believe teaching is one of the most rewarding jobs. My favorite part is watching our tiniest learners light up when they master a new skill or discover something for the first time. There is nothing quite like seeing the excitement on their faces when learning "clicks." I also love that our classroom has become a place where every child feels like family.

Outside of school, I stay busy serving as a youth ministry teacher for children in 1st through 5th grade at my church. I enjoy spending time with my family, relaxing on my back porch while listening to the birds and reading or studying my Bible, traveling on cruises to explore new places, cooking, and making fun memories with my children.

My husband David and I have two wonderful children, a 15 year old son and a 9 year old daughter and one very spoiled four legged family member, our dog, Dobby!

A few fun facts about me:

- Favorite color: Purple 💜
- Favorite foods: Mexican and sushi
- Favorite drink: Zero Sugar Red Bull (or any drink from The Grind!)
- I absolutely love plants! Even though they don't always love me back!

I am so excited for another year of learning, growing, and making memories with my students and their families! I can not wait to meet our new tiny learners!

07/15/2026

⭐️⭐️Teacher Spotlight⭐️⭐️

Hello! My name is Britanny Whitten, and I am so excited for another wonderful year in Pre-K 4! This will be my 12th year teaching, but my 13th year overall with the district—I actually started my journey right here as a paraprofessional at Caldwell Parish Pre-K!

My husband, Keith, and I have two amazing boys who absolutely love sports. When I’m not in the classroom, you can almost always find us out at a ball field cheering them on!

I can’t wait to meet my sweet new Pre-K family!

07/15/2026

⭐️⭐️Teacher Spotlight⭐️⭐️

Hello! I’m Michelle Bassett, and this will be my 6th year working with PK3 students and my 4th year as a teacher. I absolutely can’t wait to meet my new students and watch them learn, grow, and reach new milestones throughout the year!

I’m also incredibly excited about the recent merger of the PK3 and PK4 schools. Having the opportunity to collaborate with all of the Early Childhood teachers under one roof is something I’ve been looking forward to, and I know it’s going to be a wonderful experience for both our students and staff.

My husband, Justin “CPHS Alumni” works for the DOTD, and we have 3 children- Reagan “CPHS Alumni”also works for the DOTD, KayLynn is a Junior at CPHS, and Eliah is in 6th grade at CPJH!

When I’m not at work you can find me reading, planning for my classroom, or in the stands supporting the Caldwell Parish Band of Spartans! ❤️💙

07/15/2026

⭐️⭐️Teacher Spotlight⭐️⭐️

Hello Everyone! My name is Abby Jones. I will be starting my 10th year teaching this year at Caldwell Parish Pre-K 4! Early childhood is my passion! I love watching our youngest little learners grow and build new skills daily in the classroom. It warms my heart seeing them reach new milestones that sets the foundation for their futures.
My husband, Cory, and I have been married 10 years and have three wonderful children whose names are Tanner, Tristan, and Hagen. I was born and raised here in Caldwell Parish. We live on a farm where we raise a variety of livestock and crops.
When I am not teaching my little friends, you can find me with my family! Family is everything to me! I love shopping, working in my garden and flower beds, traveling, being on the water, watching my babies play ball, and making memories together that will last a lifetime!
I am so excited to meet each of your sweet, smiling faces this year! We are going to have a great year together filled with lots of love, learning, and laughter and I can’t wait!

07/15/2026

⭐️⭐️Teacher Spotlight⭐️⭐️

Hi everyone! ☀️

I’m Alli Black, and I’m so excited to be teaching Head Start for my second year! I’m looking forward to a fun and meaningful year filled with learning, laughter, and lots of special memories.

My husband, Michael, and I have two wonderful kiddos, Banx and Baylor! When I’m not at school, you can usually find me spending time with them and making the most of every moment together. 🫶🏼

I’m excited for the changes this school year brings and for the opportunity to be with not only Banx, but also many of my previous students for another year as Head Start joins with Pre-K. I can’t wait to meet my new students and their families and make this a wonderful year for everyone! 🍎✨