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Head Start Program Expands Team

09.07.2021 - Oneonta, NY

Opportunities for Otsego’s Head Start program is pleased to announce hiring of Maria Arnot as Head Start Dental/Nutrition Specialist. Ms. Arnot holds a Master’s Degree in Public Health from Cornell University and has an extensive background in providing nutritional supports to low-income persons in underserved, rural communities. Previously, Ms. Arnot managed a food systems project for a federally qualified health clinic in West Virginia, coordinated food access through mobile markets and community agriculture projects, and provided education to patients with nutrition-related chronic diseases. Ms. Arnot, an Otsego County native, is excited for the opportunity to serve young children and families in her hometown area.

Head Start is also pleased to announce the promotion of Heather Conklin to Head Start Operations Manager. Ms. Conklin has a demonstrated commitment to early childhood development; earning her AAS in Early Childhood Education from SUNY Cobleskill, serving in various roles at the Oneonta YMCA preschool program, and most recently serving as Teacher/Center Director through Opportunities for Otsego Head Start program.

Head Start Director, Nicole Cashman states “Heather demonstrates a skill set necessary to lead the Head Start teams towards achieving program goals. Her experience with New York State regulations, licensing, and Head Start Standards, along with her creativity and passion for the children and families we serve makes her the perfect person for the role.”

Under her new title, Ms. Conklin will supervise key Head Start center-based staff, conduct quality assurance of program operations, monitor program expenditures, and serve as a liaison between the program and community groups.

Marie Arnot, Dental/Nutrition Specialist Heather Conklin, HS Operations Manager