DISCOVER THE
HEAD START ADVENTURE

DISCOVER THE
HEAD START ADVENTURE

HEAD START

Our program is designed to deliver a robust birth-to school continuum of high quality early childhood education to every child that builds a solid foundation for successful transition to Kindergarten and learning readiness.

HEAD START

Our program is designed to deliver a robust birth-to school continuum of high quality early childhood education to every child that builds a solid foundation for successful transition to Kindergarten and learning readiness.

Early Head Start (EHS)

is a federally funded program that provides prenatal, early childhood education and comprehensive services for low-income families with infants and toddlers (ranging from six weeks to under three years old). The program is center-based and available on a year-round basis.

Center-based services:

  • Full day (8hrs/day) and extended day (10hrs/day) available depending on location
  • Learning experiences specific to each child’s individualized needs
  • Creative Curriculum implemented in all classrooms
  • Daily family connections
  • Health and developmental screenings
  • Ongoing observation and assessment
  • Healthy and nutritious meals (breakfast, lunch, and snack)
  • Diapers and pull-ups are provided
  • Home visits and parent-teacher conferences twice a year
  • Licensed by the Department of Human Services

Head Start (HS)

is a federally funded program that promotes school readiness by enhancing the cognitive, social and emotional development of children three to five years old from low-income families. The program is center-based and available for ten months throughout the year.

Center-based services:

  • Full day (8hrs/day) and extended day (10hrs/day) available depending on location
  • Learning experiences specific to each child’s individualized needs
  • Creative Curriculum implemented in all classrooms
  • Daily family connections
  • Daily small group activities
  • Health and developmental screenings
  • Ongoing observation and assessment
  • Healthy and nutritious meals (breakfast, lunch, and snack)
  • Home visits and parent-teacher conferences twice per year
  • Licensed by Department of Human Services
Applications are accepted year-round.
Families experiencing homelessness or do not have a regular place to stay overnight, have children with disabilities or are foster care parents are encouraged to apply.
Applications are accepted year-round.
Families experiencing homelessness or do not have a regular place to stay overnight, have children with disabilities or are foster care parents are encouraged to apply.

Our Program Supports Children’s Growth In:

Language and literacy

Physical development and health

Cognition and knowledge

Social and emotional learning

Approaches to Learning

Our Program Supports Children’s Growth In:

Language and literacy

Physical development and health

Cognition and knowledge

Social and emotional learning

Approaches to Learning

Required

Eligibility Documentation:

  • Verification of household income for last 30 days (pay stubs, tax returns, written statement from employers, etc.) OR Verification of TANF benefits OR confirmation of foster parent status.
  • Copy of child’s birth certificate
  • For prenatal services we also require verification of pregnancy from your doctor

Prior to entering the EHS or HS center-based program, the following additional items are required:

  • Child’s current physical exam
  • Child’s current immunizations record

What are the eligibility criteria for EHS and HS?

There are two criteria that need to be met to determine if a child is eligible: Age
  • EHS – prenatal moms or children from birth to age three
  • HS – children three to five years old

Income or Other Eligibility Qualifications
  • 125% at or below the federal poverty level
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Receiving public assistance (e.g. TANF or Supplemental Security Insurance)
  • Foster Child
  • Homeless
  • Children with disabilities

Is there a fee?

EHS / HS is a free child development program to all participants. There is a fee for extended day services, at select locations, which are not funded through the Office of Head Start.