In a recent meeting of the Student Safety and Well-Being Advisory Committee in Calvert County, Maryland, discussions centered around the vital role of home visiting programs in supporting families, particularly those facing challenges. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency and commitment as committee members shared insights on how these programs can effectively connect families with essential resources.

Karen Jordan, the program coordinator for the Judy Center, highlighted the importance of screenings such as the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) in identifying families that may need additional support. She emphasized that while her team is not the subject matter experts, they serve as a crucial link to connect families with the right resources. “We want to stay in our lane in terms of what we do, but we want to make sure that the families know that if they come to me, I'm gonna get you pointed in the right direction,” she stated, underscoring the program's commitment to helping families navigate available services.

The conversation also touched on the collaboration with local organizations, such as the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program and the newly appointed McKinney Vento liaison specialist. Jordan explained that these partnerships are essential for reaching families who may be at risk or in need of greater assistance. “If a family is receiving WIC, it doesn't impact their enrollment in our program,” she noted, reinforcing the inclusive nature of their services.

A poignant moment arose when Jordan recounted experiences from the pandemic, where home visitors adapted their approach to maintain connections with families. Despite restrictions on entering homes, they found innovative ways to deliver support, such as dropping off essential supplies and checking in on families' needs from a safe distance. “That’s where we learned the power of connection,” she reflected, revealing how these interactions unveiled critical needs like food and basic supplies.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the Judy Center's mission to provide comprehensive support for children from birth to age five. With 101 centers now operating across Maryland, the initiative continues to grow, driven by the vision of early childhood educator Judy Hoyer. As the committee members wrapped up their discussions, the commitment to enhancing student safety and well-being through community collaboration and resource accessibility remained a central theme, leaving attendees with a sense of hope and determination for the future.