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Head Start

Children gather around teacher who hold up sign describing feelings

Head Start is a federally-funded program that supports children's early learning and development, health, and family well-being.

Head Start services are available to eligible families at no cost. Income guidelines are set by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and are updated annually. Head Start services aim to prepare children to succeed in school and in life through learning experiences tailored to their changing needs and abilities.

Head Start Eligibility Factors

  • Children aged 3 or 4 by October 1
  • Children in foster or kinship care
  • Children from families receiving public assistance
    • Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
    • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
    • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Homeless (as defined by the McKinney-Vento Act - "individuals who lack a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence. This includes those living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, train or bus stations, hotels, motels, RV parks, substandard housing, camping grounds, or emergency or transitional shelters. Also includes those living in a public or private space not ordinarily used as a sleeping space for humans or living with relatives due to economic hardship")

For more information call 970-613-5052 or email tsdearlychildhood@tsd.org.

This program is supported by Grant Number 08CH011828 from the Office of Head Start within the Administration for Children and Families, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Neither the Administration for Children and Families nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse this website (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of Thompson Integrated Early Childhood Program and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Administration for Children and Families and the Office of Head Start.