WELCOME

You were selected to represent your state on the Region X Head Start Association Board of Directors. We are very glad to have you join us.

INTRODUCTION

This booklet is designed to answer questions that often arise as you begin conducting Region X Head Start Association (RXHSA) business. We hope this handbook will be a useful tool for you.

You are a very important member of the RXHSA. As a group, we work together to promote the Head Start philosophy within the region as well as nationally.

We need your input, your ideas and most of all your enthusiasm to promote the RXHSA activities within your state and home program.

The RXHSA Board of Directors consists of up to four voting members from each participating state association. The voting members from each state must include one director, one staff, one parent and one friend (if your state association has a Friend's Affiliate). If you are unable to attend, it is your responsibility to:

(1) Forward the meeting information to your alternate, and

(2) Be sure your alternate has the proper credentials for voting at the meeting.

You will have the opportunity to work on committees and make policy decisions that will effect the RXHSA agenda. The committees focus on current issues effecting RXHSA families and staff. Presently, they include: (1) Training, (2) Communication, (3) Executive, and (4) Networking.

As a representative, you may also be asked to participate in networking meetings with Region X Head Start Bureau, other states and local agencies who collaborate with Head Start programs.

RXHSA Membership

Region X Head Start Association consists of all members of its four state associations (Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington). Only officially identified representatives (see bylaws) of your state program may vote at general meetings of the RXHSA.

Officers

The Region X Head Start Association elects an executive committee from among the representatives. The executive committee consists of the President, the Vice-President, the Secretary, the Treasurer and the National Head Start Association (NHSA) representatives from the four affiliates (director, friend, parent and staff). Each is elected for a two-year term.

When Do We Meet?

We meet formally three times a year. The late summer/fall meeting is usually held at the next year's conference site. The December meeting rotates among the four states. The spring meeting is held in conjunction with RXHSA Conference.

Each meeting will include reports on activities of the respective committees, state and national boards. At that time, current issues/concerns are assigned to regional committees or given to national representatives for further consideration by NHSA Board. At the national level, these are assigned to committee, discussed and when appropriate, brought to the full board. The NHSA representatives then report back to the RXHSA Board.

Meetings usually last for two days with the executive board meeting one-day prior. The evenings are usually free unless committees schedule their meetings at that time. This gives you time and opportunity to network, socialize and get acquainted with the other participants.

Have fun!!

If you have questions, please ask.

We want you to be comfortable and enjoy yourself!

Again, welcome to Region X Association Board!!