31 Mar Head Start High Quality Designation
For Immediate Release
March 31, 2026
OACAC Head Start Earns Highest Quality Designation from Missouri DESE
SPRINGFIELD, MO — Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation (OACAC) Head Start has earned the state’s highest quality designation, “Exhibiting High Quality,” from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
The designation is part of Missouri’s Quality Assurance Report (QAR) system, which recognizes excellence in early learning and education programs statewide.
DESE representatives will recognize OACAC staff and leadership during a visit at 11am on April 23 at OACAC’s Central Office, 215 S. Barnes Avenue in Springfield.
Nixa Head Start and Bolivar Karlin Lane Early Head Start were the first Head Start centers in Missouri to earn the designation. Additional OACAC sites recognized include Aurora Head Start; Bolivar Broadway Early Head Start and Head Start; Buffalo Early Head Start and Head Start; Douglas Early Head Start and Head Start; Grant Early Head Start and Head Start; Hollister Early Head Start and Head Start; Marshfield Early Head Start and Head Start; Meadowbrook Head Start; Monett Early Head Start; Monett Head Start; Nordic Landing Head Start; Reeds Spring Head Start; Republic Early Head Start and Head Start; and Stewart Early Head Start and Head Start.
To qualify for the top tier, programs must meet rigorous standards, including high scores on teacher-child interactions and verification of operational and responsive practices.
According to DESE, the QAR framework outlines a vision for consistent, high-quality early childhood experiences across Missouri, emphasizing effective interactions, program structure, professional standards, inclusive practices, and family engagement.
“This recognition reflects the work of our entire team,” said Carol Bell, OACAC Head Start Director of Child Development. “Our staff is committed every day to providing high-quality services to children and families, and we are proud to see that work recognized.”
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Contact: Carol Bell, OACAC Head Start
(417) 864-3430,[email protected]