Jo’s Story

Shenandoah Valley Head Start is proud to recognize the accomplishments of Family Service Advocate, Jo Carpenter. Jo admits that after graduating from high school in 1972 she had no desire to continue an academic career. Instead of going to college she began working at Western State Hospital here in Staunton as a psychiatric aide where she remained for 14 years. During this time Jo entered the Elizabeth Brant School of Business and received certification for office administration skills. She married her husband Roscoe in 1985 and Roscoe Jr. was born in 1988.

The new addition to the Carpenter family weighed in at less than two pounds and although Roscoe is healthy and strong now, he was a needy little one in the beginning. Jo stayed at home with him until he entered preschool. Jo’s story in preschool really started as she volunteered at school and was soon “drafted” to begin substituting at Rosco’’s school. In 1994 Jo was hired by Director Steve Troxell as one of the original staff members at the Shenandoah Valley Head Start office and was motivated to enter an adult education program at Eastern Mennonite University to continue her own pursuit of professional development.

Jo’s determination and dedication paid off this spring when she received her BS degree in Business Management and Organization. Today, with her university diploma in hand, Jo recalls what motivated her to continue to work with children and families. She relates the circumstances of one family that she worked with in the beginning of her service career when she tells about the elderly grandparents’ dilemma as they struggled to care for a four year old.  Jo says, “They were afraid and unable to cut the child’s toenails and the little boy’s nails curled underneath the ends of his toes and he was limping as he walked. I took a pair of little nail scissors to their home and showed them how to cut his nails. They were so happy and grateful and I will never forget how that made me feel.”

This story stands out as a part of “Jo’s Story” as she succeeded in reaching the heights of her academic achievement and as she continues to serve families and children with love, kindness and concern.  Our sincerest congratulations go to Jo for all that she has become as a proud advocate for preschool children and families.  We are so proud to have her with us as a colleague and friend.

Submitted by Cathy Cook, Family Service Coordinator