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Head Start is a federally funded program, providing comprehensive services, including preschool, to primarily 3 and 4 year old children. Head Start has been in existence for 42 years providing a safe healthy learning environment, a developmentally appropriate education, and nutritious meals to disadvantaged "at risk" children.
Any 3 or 4 year old child can apply for enrollment in Head Start. Therefore, we encourage all families to apply. Federal regulations require SCFO to serve 90% of children from low income families. These families must meet the federal poverty guidelines. 10% of enrolled children can be from families whose income is above poverty guidelines. Head Start must also serve at least 10% of children with a diagnosed disability.
Head Start has been around so long because it works! Studies show that for every dollar spent on quality early childhood education, more than $7 is saved on each of these children later for school retention, special education, and support services. These children are less likely to drop out of school or commit crime and are more likely to go to college.
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In addition to providing preschool experiences to children, Head Start ensures each child receives a physical exam, a vision screen, a hearing screen, a nutrition screen, a mental health screen, a developmental screen and a dental screen. During the course of these screens if any needs are identified then Head Start works with the family to ensure follow-up occurs.
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