Early Head Start

Early Head Start (EHS) is a federally funded program that offers free comprehensive services to economically disadvantaged families with infants, toddlers, and pregnant women. Early Head Start is a parent-participation program that offers comprehensive early childhood services to expectant mothers and children, from birth to two years old, at no cost to eligible families. Face-to-face interviews are required in order to complete the application process. Eligibility and selection are based on family needs and income. Space is limited. Head Start and Early Head Start is a needs-based program and the district follows federal guidelines for admission into the program. Children with documented disabilities or special needs are encouraged to apply. Transportation is not provided. Completing an application and a face-to-face interview does NOT guarantee selection into the program.

Head Start

The Head Start/Early Intervention Department administers the District’s Head Start (HS) Program, a federally funded program that offers free comprehensive services to economically disadvantaged children and families. Head Start is a parent-participation program that offers comprehensive preschool services to children three to five years old, at no cost to eligible families. Face-to-face interviews are required in order to complete the application process. Eligibility and selection are based on family needs and income. Space is limited. Head Start and Early Head Start is a needs-based program and the district follows federal guidelines for admission into the program. Children with documented disabilities or special needs are encouraged to apply. Transportation is not provided. Completing an application and a face-to-face interview does NOT guarantee selection into the program.

The Head Start/Early Intervention Department administers the District’s Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) Program, a State funded program that offers free instruction to Florida four-year-olds.

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The 2022-2023 Head Start interview window has re-opened for select schools.

The application interview window has re-opened for select schools. Please visit the 2022-2023 application page for additional information.

Important Information about Entering Kindergarten after Head Start/Early Head Start & Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK)
Selection for a Head Start/Early Head Start & VPK/Enrichment program at a school does not guarantee placement for Kindergarten at the same school. If your child is selected or offered a seat in a Head Start/Early Head Start & VPK/Enrichment class that is not your boundary school, you must apply for and receive a reassignment in order for your child to attend Kindergarten at the same school. To learn about the reassignment process, please visit the School Choice website.