Program Information
St. Mary's County Public Schools Head Start provides a comprehensive child and family development program for low income children ages three to five and their families.
Our program is center-based and the students receive their educational instruction at two SMCPS schools. Our Family Service Providers work with families and conduct home visits to set family goals and provide support in variety of ways. The Education staff works with families to set education goals designed to support the parent/guardian role as the primary educator of their children. Our Instructional Specialists and Social-Emotional/Mental Health Specialist complete our program, adding the extra support for the health and education of our students.
During the year, we hold many Parent involvement activities and work with the Policy Council to ensure compliance with Federal Requirements.
What to do when:
Your child is absent or tardy:
Please call or email the Head Start Nurse if your child is going to be tardy or absent.
You can also report an absence on our website using the "Report an Absence" button on our main page.
We are required to contact you when your child is absent for three or more consecutive days.
If you have extenuating circumstances, please contact your Family Service Provider or the Head Start Nurse to discuss a solution and ensure your child makes it to school.
Inclement Weather & Early Dismissals:
On days when the school has a delayed opening, Head Start follows this schedule:
AM 3-year-olds: Do not attend school
PM 3-year-olds: attend per SMCPS delayed arrival schedule
Full Day 3s & 4s: attend according to SMCPS delayed arrival schedule
Early dismissal days: Head Start students do not attend school on regular early dismissal days. In the case of early dismissal for inclement weather, you will be contacted to be kept updated on the procedure.
No Student Attendance Days for 2020-2021 School Year:
December 11, 2020: Professional Day for teachers
December 21, 2020 - January 1, 2021: Winter Break
January 18, 2021: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
January 22, 2021: Professional Day for teachers
January 29, 2021: Professional Day for teachers
February 15, 2021: President's Day
February 26, 2021: Professional Day for teachers
March 26, 2021: Professional Day for teachers
March 29 - April 5, 2021: Spring Break
April 12, 2021: Professional Day for teachers
May 21, 2021: Professional Day for teachers
May31, 2021: Memorial Day
Last day for Head Start Students - June 17, 2021