The Head Start Program
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through services including early learning, health, and family well-being
- Agency
- U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
- Type
- Federal Resource
- Phone
- Application Period
- Income Limit
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through services including early learning, health, and family well-being. The program fosters school readiness, provides health and nutrition support, and strengthens parent-child relationships.
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through services including early learning, health, and family well-being. The program fosters school readiness, provides health and nutrition support, and strengthens parent-child relationships.
Additional Information
Programs connect families with medical, dental, and mental health services. Parents and families are supported in achieving goals like housing stability and financial security.
Images & PDFs
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A guide to professional early care and education practice in Montana, detailing what early childhood practitioners need to know and do.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Economic Impact of Head Start in Montana
6/15/2021 | Coverage: state
This report provides an overview of the economic contributions of Head Start programs in Montana, including job creation and the alleviation of poverty.
Source: Montana State University
Coverage Area: state
Rising Costs and the Necessity of Public Assistance
3/10/2022 | Coverage: national
This report discusses how inflation and wage stagnation have intensified the need for programs like Head Start, highlighting their critical role in supporting low-income families.
Source: Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
Coverage Area: national
The Impact of Head Start on Children's Outcomes
12/1/2010 | Coverage: national
This report examines the long-term outcomes of children who participated in the Head Start program, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving educational achievement and social skills.
Source: Administration for Children and Families
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Updated Performance Standards
12/10/2016The Office of Head Start issued new performance standards to improve program effectiveness and accountability.
Head Start Program Reauthorization
10/5/2007The Head Start program was reauthorized with a focus on improving program quality and enhancing services for children and families.
Early Head Start Established
12/12/1994The Early Head Start program was created to serve pregnant women, infants, and toddlers, expanding the age range of children served.
Head Start Reauthorization
9/30/1981The program was reauthorized, leading to expanded eligibility and increased federal funding.
Establishment of Head Start
5/18/1965The Head Start program was created as part of the Economic Opportunity Act, aiming to promote school readiness for children from low-income families.
FAQ
The Head Start Program in Montana is a federally funded program that promotes school readiness for children from low-income families. It provides comprehensive education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to children ages birth to five, preparing them for success in school and life.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs
The Head Start Program offers a variety of services designed to promote children's development and readiness for school. These services include early childhood education, health and nutrition screenings, mental health services, and parental engagement opportunities.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs
Eligibility for the Head Start Program typically includes children from low-income families, those experiencing homelessness, or children in foster care. Specific criteria may vary by local programs, so it's important to check with your local Head Start agency for detailed eligibility requirements.
To determine if you are eligible for the Head Start Program, consider the following checklist:
- Family income must be at or below the federal poverty line.
- Child must be between the ages of birth to five years old.
- Family must meet specific needs, such as homelessness or foster care status.
If you meet these criteria, you may be eligible to apply for the program.
If you're interested in applying for the Head Start Program, follow these action items:
- Visit your local Head Start program website.
- Gather required documents such as income verification.
- Fill out the application form provided by your local agency.
- Attend any scheduled interviews or meetings.
Completing these steps will help you get started with your application.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs
Eligibility requirements can vary by program, and it's important to contact your local agency for specific details.
