Staff Writer

Students in the Organized Community Action Program’s Head Start are celebrating this week.

On behalf of Troy Mayor Jimmy Lunsford, Sheila Jackson presented a proclamation asking for residents to celebrate April 1-7 as "Week of the Young Child."

But, it wasn’t the proclamation that drew attention from the students. What caught their eyes was the huge cake decorated with primary colors.

The proclamation states the future of Troy depends on early childhood education and development and "high-quality early childhood services represent a worthy commitment to our children’s future."

Through the proclamation, Lunsford urges all citizens to recognize and support the needs of young children in the community.

Community involvement is exactly what makes the program special, said Octavia Jones, center director.

Whether its adults coming in to read a book to the students or Troy State University students doing a little painting or shelf building, Jones said the Head Start program has grown because the community cares.

Jones said the week-long celebration is part of "National Celebrate Week of the Young Child."

Students kicked off the week on Monday with Crazy Hat Day, complete with a parade around the block and followed it with the mayor’s proclamation on Tuesday.

Today, the students will have special readers share stories with them and on Thursday, they will get to show their grandparents what they have done during Grandparent’s Day.

Friday will be Outside Fun Day.

Each April "Week of the Young Child" is used to bring public attention to educating young children. Locally, Jones said the week serves as a chance for teachers and volunteers to "recommit ourselves" to educating tomorrow’s adults.

Jones wants every child to have the opportunity to enjoy "the type of childhood that brings foundation for the future."

As a matter of fact, the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s theme for this week is "Early Childhood ­ Where Our Future Begins."

"Week of the Young Child" is also being celebrated in Brundidge.