Comprehensive
Education
Education
York County Head Start, programs of York County Community Action Corporation, is committed to providing high-quality early childhood care and education to children 6 weeks to 5 years across York County,Maine.
Teachers, Family Liaisons, and families work together to make sure every child is prepared to succeed in school and in life. Our lessons are developed to match each child’s social, emotional, physical, and educational growth. This way, they will feel confident and excited as they get ready for kindergarten and beyond!
Early Head Start
Our Early Head Start rooms provide full-day childcare and education to children 6 weeks to 3 years old. If you are a new mom or mom-to-be utilizing WIC services, we strongly encourage you to apply for the Early Head Start program.
What we offer in the Early Head Start program:
- Full-day, year-round schedule
- Small group size of 8 children with staff trained in infant/toddler development
- Individualized infant feeding and sleeping routines
- Diapers, wipes, formula, and many other items provided as needed during school time
- Nutritious meals and snacks to toddlers
- Daily written communications to parents
- Family engagement events to connect learning between home and school.
- Age-appropriate classroom activities that support the growth of the child’s social, emotional, and cognitive abilities.
“The quality of care in Early Head Start is unmatched. Nurturing, supportive and trustworthy teachers instilled positive learning techniques for independence, safety and social skills.” ~Early Head Start parent
Head Start Preschool
Our Head Start Preschool classrooms are for children 3 to 5 years old. With focus on school readiness, the daily schedule includes activities promoting social, emotional, physical, and educational growth and skills.
What we provide in the Head Start program:
- School-year schedule and year-round options available
- Nutritious meals and snacks
- Individualized curriculum to support literacy, numeracy and math skills, creativity, health and nutrition
- Social-emotional learning program focused on child’s well-being
- Full-day pre-K classroom in partnership with Biddeford public schools (transportation provided)
“My husband and I are very appreciative of the time they have dedicated getting to know our son on a personal level, not just another student in the classroom.” ~ Head Start Parent
Support for the Whole Family
Family members’ active involvement in the child’s early education builds language, socialization, and cognitive abilities. We know that when a family does well, a child does well. That is why our commitment goes beyond just your child’s well-being and education. We will work with you to figure out what else your family might need, set goals, and find resources to help with those needs. When your child joins our program, you become a part of a friendly community of teachers, staff, and other families—a group that is always there to help with information and support.
A staff member will work in partnership with you to understand your family’s specific goals and help connect you to available resources as needed.
Teamwork in Action: Teachers, Staff, and Families Joining Forces
We believe it is important to help families grow, not just the children. We offer educational opportunities, leadership roles, and volunteering that not only benefit Head Start classrooms but bring multiple personal benefits. If you are a parent, grandparent, or just someone who cares about children and wants to help, we would love to have you join the Head Start program!
Eligibility
Your family may qualify for the Head Start programs if:
- Your family’s income is at or below the federal poverty level.
- You are experiencing homelessness.
- You have children in foster care.
- You are receiving TANF, SSI, or SNAP.
Submit your application today to see if your family qualifies!
