The Head Start Program
Head Start programs support children's growth and development in a positive learning environment through services in early learning, health, and family well-being
- Agency
- Office of Head Start
- Type
- Federal Program
- Phone
- Application Period
- Income Limit
Head Start programs support children's growth and development in a positive learning environment through services in early learning, health, and family well-being. They foster readiness for school and beyond through individualized learning experiences, social skills, emotional well-being, language, literacy, concept development, health screenings, and family engagement.
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through services in early learning, health, and family well-being. They foster readiness for school and beyond through individualized learning experiences, social skills, emotional well-being, language, literacy, concept development, health screenings, and family engagement.
Images & PDFs
Helping Maine Grow: Mean Wage for Early Educators
An infographic showing the average wages for early educators in Maine, highlighting the financial landscape for child care educators, preschool, and kindergarten teachers.
View Full ImageLearning Guidelines, Maine.gov
A visual pyramid illustrating Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, highlighting fulfillment, esteem, love, safety, and physiological needs.
View Full ImageUnderstanding and Adapting to Children's Diverse Experiences
An educational resource highlighting the diverse early childhood experiences children may have before kindergarten, emphasizing the importance of adapting to these differences.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Addressing Economic Disparities: The Role of Head Start
8/20/2020 | Coverage: national
This report examines how Head Start addresses economic disparities among low-income families, reinforcing the program's role as a vital support system.
Source: Annie E. Casey Foundation
Coverage Area: national
Economic Necessity and Social Stigma: A Case for Head Start
11/2/2022 | Coverage: national
This study highlights how rising living costs amplify the need for programs like Head Start while challenging negative perceptions surrounding public aid.
Source: National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
Coverage Area: national
Head Start and Its Impact on Children and Families in Maine
5/15/2021 | Coverage: state
This report evaluates the positive effects of the Head Start Program on children and families in Maine, focusing on educational outcomes and community benefits.
Source: Maine Department of Health and Human Services
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act
12/10/2015This act aimed to strengthen the Head Start program through enhanced performance standards and increased funding.
Head Start Reauthorization
10/15/2007The reauthorization focused on improving program accountability and quality while ensuring funding for continued operations.
Head Start Act
9/7/1994The Head Start Act was amended to improve quality and expand access to more low-income children.
Establishment of Head Start
1/8/1965The Head Start Program was officially launched to promote school readiness for children from low-income families.
FAQ
The Head Start Program in Maine is a comprehensive early childhood education program designed to promote school readiness for children from low-income families. It offers various services, including education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement, ensuring children are prepared for success in school and life.
Reference: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ocfs/ec/early-care/head-start.html
