Perhaps one of the greatest social programs of recent years, Head Start provides a part-day program for 1,300-plus preschool children. Includes social competence in health, educational, social and nutritional activities. Also offers disability services for children, and provides special needs for them so that they can interact and assimilate in the learning environment. In addition, the program provides training and technical assistance to the staff and parents to better prepare them to achieve the overall goals and objectives of Head Start. This includes workshops and college credit courses in Early Childhood Development.
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Who is Eligible?
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.
How to Apply
Age Eligibility: Head Start -- Ages 3-4Children considered for enrollment must be at least three years old by September 30, the date used to determine eligibility for public schools in the community. Preference may be given to families who have two age-eligible children (ages three and four) providing all other eligibility requirements have been met. Children whose date of birth falls after September 30 of the program year will become age-eligible on their third birthday, and may be allowed to participate in the Head Start program providing all other guidelines are met. Once children are enrolled, they are allowed to remain in Head Start until kindergarten. However, the program may choose not to enroll a child a second year if there are compelling reasons such as a change in child’s family income, or another child with a greater need for Head Start services.
Center Locations
This program can operate more than one physical center. Each location below is its own listing with its own address and contact information.
Browse Family Resources for articles on early childhood education, health, and family support.
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Share your experience with SMILE Community Action Agency's HS Program, whether your child attended, you evaluated their services, or you worked there. You can help others by writing a review.
Please do not submit: Social Security numbers, birth certificates, income or tax documents,
medical records, immigration documents, benefit-account details, or other official application materials through
this form. Official enrollment documents must be submitted directly to the local Head Start program.