More than 2,000 preschool-aged children are served every day in free-standing centers and public school-based sites. The majority of these centers have achieved national accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
Head Start schools offer high-quality services to increase the school readiness of young children, including:
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Safe, welcoming facilities
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Low teacher-child ratios – one teacher for every 8-10 children
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Highly-qualified, degreed teachers
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Individualized curriculum
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Developmentally-appropriate activities and materials
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Ongoing assessment and evaluation of children’s progress
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Nutritious meals and snacks
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Parent involvement opportunities
In addition, many sites provide more services to children and families, including:
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Family empowerment and goal-setting activities
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Case management for families
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Screening and follow-up for health, nutrition and developmental concerns
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Assistance in obtaining health and dental insurance and finding a “medical home.”
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Adult Education classes including GED, English as a Second Language and nutrition parenting
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Support groups for families of children with disabilities
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Programs focused on supporting father involvement