Head Start is a program that provides services to promote academic, social, and emotional development. This program applies to children ages 3 to kindergarten (age 5). Program eligibility is for children and families at or below the federal poverty level or where students have specific developmental needs.
Half Day Preschool is provided for free through the Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program. Families who qualify for Head Start may be eligible for free or reduced full-day preschool. Families who do not qualify for Head Start services will pay for the second half of the day if they choose to have their child attend all day.
Please know that Head Start will need your income information for 2024. If you have filed your taxes, they will require your 1040 form or all the W-2's for 2023. If your family receives child support, SSI, or FIP, Head Start will also need documentation of that. If you do not have any income to report please contact the ELC Secretaries at 319-627-5089 or Maria Cruz, by telephone: 563-549-0342 or by email mcruz@caeiowa.org as there will be another form for you to complete.
If you would like to apply for Head Start to see if you can qualify for free/reduced preschool through Head Start please click on the link below.
Community Action of Eastern Iowa Head Start Application
Paper applications will be available at our in-person Preschool/Kindergarten registration.
February 12th from 4:00 om- 7:30 pm
February 13th from 8:00 am - 7:30 pm
Or available to pick up during school hours in the ELC office.
If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact Maria Cruz, by telephone: 563-549-0342 or by email mcruz@caeiowa.org or our ELC Secretaries at 319-627-5089.