What is Head Start?
WCCA Head Start is a comprehensive early childhood development program serving low-income children from age three to five and their families. Head Start is a Federal program that is operated by a local non-profit organization – West Central Community Action (WCCA). Children who attend Head Start participate in a variety of educational activities including literacy, language, science, social-emotional, and much more. They also receive medical and dental services, have healthy meals and snacks, and enjoy playing safely indoors and outdoors.

In addition to the educational services provided by Head Start, family involvement is at the core of its success. Head Start families can take part in the classroom as a volunteer, help with classroom projects, and even help develop curriculum. Elected family members take part in our Policy Council, a board that partners with staff members in decision-making responsibilities for the program. Families can participate in trainings in areas such as child rearing, job training, health and nutrition, as well as learn about other resources in our community.

Benefits of Head Start
Numerous studies have confirmed time and again that a child’s learning begins at birth. For low-income children, quality pre-kindergarten education such as provided by WCCA Head Start is crucial in establishing life-long healthy patterns and development. Because experiences between birth and age five shape a child for life, the quality of the child’s environment, social interactions, and learning experiences during those years is critical.

Program Options(Options vary by site.)

• Half-day a.m. & p.m.
• Full-day (approximate times 6:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.)
• Wrap Around Child Care Services (not available at all sites)
• Breakfast, lunch and snack served during class time.

Head Start Application *To submit via E-mail click the "Submit Form" button on this document.

Solicitud de Head Start(Spanish) *Para entregar por correo electronico, haga clic en 'Entregar formulario' en este documento.

More Information
Please visit the following web sites for more information on Head Start and other early childhood issues.

Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center
http://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc   
Early Head Start National Resource Center
http://www.ehsnrc.org
Council for Professional Recognition
http://www.cdacouncil.org
The Center on Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning
http://www.vanderbilt.edu/csefel
Head Start Body Start – The National Center for Physical Development and Outdoor Play
http://www.headstartbodystart.org
National Head Start family Literacy Center
http://www.sonoma.edu/cihs/familyliteracy
National Maternal and Child Oral Health Resource Center
http://www.mchoralhealth.org/HeadStart/index.html
Head Start Resource Center
http://www.headstartresourcecenter.org