O'Farrill Learning Center Head Start

Head Start is a comprehensive, federally-funded, child development program, serving children from ages 3 to 5 and their families. As a child-focused program, the overall goal is to increase the social, intellectual and emotional competence of young children in low-income families. Head Start services are also family-centered following the tenets that children develop in the context of their family and culture and parents are respected as the primary educators and nurturers of their children. All families are offered support and opportunities for growth and development. Parents are encouraged to be involved in all aspects of the program, from participating in children's activities to direct involvement in policy and program decision making. A range of individualized services are provided through the Head Start program in the areas of education and early childhood development, medical, dental, health, nutrition, social services and parent involvement. In addition, the entire range of Head Start services is responsive and appropriately developed to each child and family's ethnicity, cultural experience and linguistic heritage.

Head Start generally serves children ages 3 to 5 who meet local eligibility requirements. Pregnant women and children from birth to 3 years of age are eligible for Early Head Start services. Children and families who are homeless, in foster care, or receive TANF or SSI are also eligible for services. Eligibility is determined by Head Start program staff and some families may be eligible for services if they are determined to be at or below the federal poverty level. Some grantees enroll a percentage of children from families with incomes above the Poverty Guidelines as well.

Families are encouraged to apply.

Contact this program directly to ask about eligibility, openings, required documents, and the local application process.