Public Health

The business structure I would select if I opened a new center would be Partnership. According to the textbook partnership means, “an association of two or more persons to carry on as co-workers of a business for profit” (Hatten, 2011, p.38). The reason I chose partnership because me and a good friend of mine who has worked in the Head Start program for a while always wanted to do this and we think with the knowledge we have acquired over the years and with a great combination of experience we could possible do this business venture. My structure will be a nonprofit because with nonprofit programs “they are supported by donations and can also depend on income from sales of goods and services, and many receive most of or all their revenue from the government” ( Hall, 2010,p.3). My business would be non-profit for the most part as we would ask for donations and sponsorships, but nothing would be expected. This structure would be best for the program and leadership style that my partnership and I have decided upon because it is all based around a group effort and everyone working together for things to run smoothly, as all businesses should be.  We will not have a board of directors, we will discuss and decide on policies, programs, and requirements together. State and Federal licensing regulations vary for child programs and obviously vary from state to state but the usual regulations/requirements are, building safety, physical space, teacher to child ratio, staff qualifications, and transportation. The licensing process unfortunately is not a quick process even if you have met all the requirements and the time it takes also varies from state to state. “Directors who are seeking initial licensing should allow plenty of time for the length process that includes on-site visits and conferences with inspectors from all departments involved. It is wise to allow at least 90 days to complete the initial licensing process, although some states suggest that much more time may be required.