The Head Start Program
Head Start programs support children's growth and development in a positive learning environment through a variety of services
- Agency
- Administration for Children and Families
- Type
- Federal Resource
- Phone
- Application Period
- Income Limit
Head Start programs support children's growth and development in a positive learning environment through a variety of services. These include early learning through individualized experiences, social skills, language and literacy learning, health services including screenings and nutritious meals, and family well-being support with goals such as housing stability and education.
Head Start programs support children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through a variety of services. These include early learning through individualized experiences, social skills, language and literacy learning, health services including screenings and nutritious meals, and family well-being support with goals such as housing stability and education.
Images & PDFs
Early Head Start Parent Handbook 2024-2025
A handbook detailing the Early Head Start program calendar and activities by NeighborImpact for the year 2024-2025, aimed at supporting families in Oregon.
View Full ImageHead Start Parents As Your Best Employees: Head Start of Lane County
A flyer highlighting the benefits of employing parents from the Head Start program in Lane County, emphasizing their skills and reliability.
View Full ImageOregon Literacy Plan: Birth to Five
A visual guide outlining the components of the Oregon Literacy Plan for children from birth to age five, focusing on early literacy goals and structured support involving families, educators, and communities.
View Full ImageOregon Pyramid Model and Inclusion
A visual diagram from Oregon State University's College of Health illustrating the supports provided through the Pyramid Model, focusing on creating inclusive and supportive environments.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Breaking Down Barriers: The Stigma of Aid in Oregon
9/1/2021 | Coverage: state
This report explores how Head Start programs actively work to combat the stigma associated with receiving assistance by fostering community acceptance and support.
Source: Oregon Department of Human Services
Coverage Area: state
Head Start's Impact on Oregon Communities
5/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report details how the Head Start Program in Oregon enhances educational outcomes and community engagement, significantly benefiting low-income families.
Source: Oregon Health Authority
Coverage Area: state
The Economic Case for Head Start: A Review of Recent Studies
3/10/2023 | Coverage: national
This comprehensive review consolidates multiple studies illustrating how Head Start reduces financial strain on families, particularly during economic downturns.
Source: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
Coverage Area: national
The Rising Cost of Living: The Necessity of Early Childhood Education Programs
7/20/2023 | Coverage: national
This report discusses the critical role that programs like Head Start play in alleviating the burden of rising living costs on families, especially during economic instability.
Source: U.S. Department of Education
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Head Start Program Funding Increase
9/24/2013The program received an increase in federal funding aimed at enhancing the quality and availability of Head Start services.
Head Start Program Reauthorization
12/12/2007Congress reauthorized the Head Start program, emphasizing the importance of early childhood education and establishing guidelines for program accountability.
Improving Head Start for the 21st Century
9/21/1994Legislation was passed to improve the quality of Head Start programs by increasing funding and focusing on performance standards.
Head Start Act Amendments
11/29/1972The Head Start Act was amended to include the provision for serving children with disabilities, expanding the program's inclusivity.
Head Start Program Established
1/8/1965The Head Start Program was launched as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson's War on Poverty initiative, aiming to provide comprehensive early childhood education and support to low-income families.
FAQ
You can find a Head Start Program near you by visiting the official Head Start locator on the federal Office of Head Start's website. This resource allows you to search by zip code or city to find programs within your area. Additionally, you can contact local community centers or schools for more information.
Reference: https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator
Make sure to confirm the availability of programs and specific services offered, as these may vary.
Enrolling your child in the Head Start Program offers numerous benefits, including early childhood education, health screenings, and access to nutritional programs. The program also provides family support services and fosters parental involvement in the child's education, contributing to overall development and readiness for school.
To help determine if Head Start is right for your child, consider the following checklist:
- Is your child between the ages of 3 to 5?
- Is your family's income below the federal poverty line?
- Does your child have special needs or require additional support?
- Are you looking for educational resources and social services?
Reviewing this checklist can guide your decision to enroll in the Head Start Program.
Here are some action items to help you get started with the enrollment process:
- Gather required documents such as income verification and proof of residency.
- Contact your local Head Start center to learn about available openings.
- Complete the enrollment application form with your personal details.
- Schedule a meeting with program staff to discuss your child's needs.
Taking these steps will help ensure a smooth enrollment process for your child.
Reference: https://www.oregon.gov/education/Pages/index.aspx
Eligibility requirements and benefits may vary by program; always check with local Head Start centers for the most accurate information.
The Head Start Program in Oregon is a federal program that promotes school readiness for children from low-income families by providing educational, health, nutritional, and social services. It serves children ages 3 to 5 and their families, aiming to enhance the cognitive, social, and emotional development of children.
Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs
Eligibility for the Head Start Program is primarily based on family income and circumstances. Generally, children from families whose income is at or below the federal poverty line qualify. Additionally, children with disabilities and those experiencing homelessness are also prioritized for enrollment.
