Head Start
Since 1965, Mountain Projects, Inc. Head Start program has been dedicated to providing income eligible children and families a comprehensive developmentally appropriate program that is culturally sensitive, nurturing, safe, and in which children, families, and staff are inspired to reach their fullest potential.
Investing in our youngest learners. Head Start programs provide comprehensive early education, health screenings, nutritious meals, and family support services—all free for eligible families. Our classrooms are a place where children grow, parents are empowered, and futures are built.

“I have seen so many families succeed in the Head Start Program. It is very fulfilling and rewarding to help these children and their families grow. It makes a stronger community.”
Beth Lewis, Head Start’s Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Coordinator
“I love being able to see the difference that this program makes in the lives of the children and families we serve. It’s the simple things. For example, when a child fails a vision screening, we refer them, they get glasses, and suddenly, we see them more engaged in the classroom. The result is incredibly rewarding.”
Laura Beth Passmore, Head Start Health and Nutrition Coordinator
Waynesville Head Start

"Seeing a child gain confidence, express their feelings with words, or try something new for the first time is a beautiful reminder of why this work matters. I love building relationships with the children and their families, and knowing I’m helping lay a strong foundation for their future.”
Traci Royster, Waynesville Head Start
“For the past 14 years, Head Start has been more than a job—it’s been my purpose. I love knowing that every day I have the chance to make a lasting difference in a child’s life. Watching them grow, learn, and thrive reminds me why I chose this path.”
Iris Silvers, Waynesville Head Start
Edwina G. Hall Head Start

“I have worked with families from different generations … when a child walks in and their mom or grandmother says, ‘I remember you,’ it means a lot.”
Lynn Bryant, Clyde Head Start Supervisor
“It seems like yesterday that I began my journey with Mountain Projects Head Star. I believe with my whole heart that teaching young children is a calling that one chooses to embrace. I feel that I have been entrusted with little minds to plant seeds of learning that someone will water as each child continues their educational journey. Ultimately, teaching young children is a blessing.”
Juanita Meadows, Clyde Head Start
Kneedler Child Development Outreach Center
The Kneedler Child Development Center is named in honor of Mary Kneedler, a long-time advocate for quality care and education for children. It is a community of caring and learning and is dedicated children and their families.
Designed specifically for young children, the facility serves University parents as well as the local community and has a 5 star rating from the North Carolina Division of Child Development as a model for the care and education of young children.
Kneedler Child Development
Outreach Center
239 East University Way,
Cullowhee
828-293-2000


Staff Spotlight: Julie Keffer
Staying the Course, Mountain Projects Head Start teacher achieves dream at 55
Turner Head Start
35 Peach Bloom Dr, Canton
828-648-6637

Meet Our Administrative Staff

Christie Paxton
Head Start Director


Tabitha Justice
Education & Mental Health Coordinator

Tabitha Justice
Education & Mental Health Coordinator
- Phone:828-456-4546, Ext. 206
- Email:[email protected]

Laura Passmore
Health & Nutrition Coordinator


Missy Gibson
ERSEA Coordinator


Beth Lewis
CACFP Coordinator
