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Head Start

2021-2022 Pre-Kindergarten and Head Start Applications are now open.

Online applications for Pre-Kindergarten and Headstart are available now.

Apply for pre k and head start

Learn more about registration.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call our office at 301-690-2441.

We Wish You Well,

Head Start/Pre-K Application Team 

SMCPS Head Start - Overview

The SMCPS Head Start program provides services for children ages three through five and their families. Mrs. Andrea Owens is the coordinator for the St. Mary's County Schools Head Start Program. Mrs. Kelly Hall oversees this program in addition to our other early childhood development programs. We work together with our community partners to ensure that children are socially, emotionally, and physically ready to transition to Kindergarten.

Two Sites

Top Resources

ABOUT HEAD START

Our focus is to provide a learning environment that supports children’s growth in the following domains:

  • Language and literacy
  • Cognition and general knowledge
  • Physical development and health
  • Social and emotional development 

Head Start provides comprehensive services to enrolled low-income children and their families, which includes health, nutrition, social and other services determined to be necessary by family needs assessments.

MISSION

Head Start emphasizes the role of parents as their child’s first and most important teacher. The Head Start program builds relationships with families that support:

  • Family well-being and positive parent-child relationships
  • Families as learners and lifelong educators
  • Family engagement in transitions
  • Family connections to peers and community
  • Families as advocates and leaders

FUNDING

Head Start is a five-year grant federal program that promotes the school readiness of children ages three through five from low-income families by enhancing their cognitive, social and emotional development.