Head Start is a free, quality preschool program for children. The program assesses the emotional and intellectual development of each child and then tailors the program to meet each child's needs. Head Start strives to promote the social competence of children. Social competence is the child's ability to successfully deal with his or her present environment and later responsibilities in school and life. Head Start children learn early math concepts, literacy, arts, and music and movement activities. They develop school readiness and social skills, which help them to become independent, inquisitive, self-confident learners and have a lifelong love of knowledge.

Parents are supported in their role as primary caregivers and teachers of their children. The staff supports families in meeting personal goals and achieving self-sufficiency across a wide variety of domains. Strong partnerships with families are developed to support children's school readiness and healthy development.

Service Area: Burleigh, Kidder and Emmons Counties

Early Head Start/Head Start is funded to serve 2 pregnant women and 129 children birth to five whose parents meet federal income guidelines. At least 10% of children enrolled have an identified disability.

Early Head Start provides early, continuous, intensive and comprehensive child development and family support services to infants & toddlers and their families, and pregnant women and their families.

Head Start provides children ages 3-5 with comprehensive preschool services in the areas of health, education, social services, and parent involvement.

Eligibility is determined by using income guidelines that are established by the federal government. Ninety percent of the Head Start families enrolled are below the federal poverty level or receive public assistance (TANF, SSI, SNAP, or Foster Care). Families who are within the 130% guidelines may be served after all the families who meet the 100% poverty guidelines have been served.

Head Start Annual Report