Sara Bartrum, the Executive Director of the Chelan Douglas Child Services Association, was named Head Start/ECEAP Director of the Year by the Washington State Association of Head Start and ECEAP (WSA) at its October meeting in Wenatchee.
Sara has led CDCSA since 1990 when she took over a small, troubled program. With a new vision for serving children and families and a commitment to quality services and a strong staff, Sara has presided over the doubling of the Head Start and ECEAP program in the area. Chelan Douglas Child Services Association has become a leader in the state, with consecutive perfect federal reviews and strong outcomes for the children and families it serves.
Mary Ann Warren, member of CDCSA governing board, said the following:
“Over the years I have been constantly impressed with Sara’s skills as a leader. She has a unique ability to identify and solve problems, develop systems that work, ask for advice when needed, and find grants and resources to support the mission. She does all this while supporting a loyal staff and maintaining a deep commitment to serving the needs the families and children in the program. It’s hard to think of a funny story to tell about Sara, because she’s so good at her work that she regularly solves problems with no drama, and creates great results for kids. There’s no one who deserves this award more than Sara.”
Joel Ryan, Executive Director, WSA, said the following:
“Chelan Douglas is a good example of how excellent leadership, vision and a commitment to quality and service can strengthen and sustain all elements of Head Start and ECEAP – its children, its families, its staff, and its community leaders. Sara’s leadership has made this happen. I am so happy that Sara won this prestigious award—it is well deserved.”
Contratulations to Sara!