What Is Head Start

(3 & 4yr olds on or before Sep. 1)

Head Start is a free, federally funded preschool/family program operated in almost every county in the country, serving children three to five years old. Head Start centers provide programs and services including the following:

  • FREE preschool / family program
  • Transportation available whenever possible
  • We welcome children of all abilities, including children with disabilities
  • Locations in Beloit, Janesville, Elkhorn, Whitewater, and Lake Geneva
  • 4K/P4J collaboration in Beloit & Janesville
  • Our goal is for your child to leave Head Start more prepared for kindergarten and excited about learning
  • Healthy meals & snacks

All children & families will receive:

  • Health, dental, & educational screenings and/or services
  • Literacy events for children & families to promote school readiness
  • Group activities for parents throughout the year, including events/projects for dads and other significant male role models
  • Parents are supported as being the child’s most important teacher!

Who Can Apply

  • Families living in Rock or Walworth County
  • Families living on limited incomes (we are required to follow the Federal Poverty Guidelines)
  • Foster children & families receiving Kinship Care
  • Families who receive SSI (Supplemental Security Income), W2 Cash Assistance or Food Share (SNAP)
  • Head Start programs may enroll up to 10% of children from families that have incomes above the Poverty Guidelines. Programs may also serve up to an additional 35% of children from families whose incomes are above the Poverty Guidelines, but below 130% of the poverty line if the program can ensure that certain conditions have been met.

Cost:

Head Start and Early Head Start are federally funded programs and therefore are provided to families at no cost, with the exception of childcare wraparound through our community partners.

Transportation

TRANSPORTATION IN HEAD START is recognized as a valuable learning experience in the area of safety and learning social skills. Providing a safe transition to and from the center requires cooperation and team work between staff & parents/guardians.

    • An Adult must walk their child to the bus for pick up and meet the bus for drop off.
    • Bus transportation is provided on a limited basis depending on a family’s home address and the classroom location.

TRANSPORTATION LOCATION:
ADMINISTRATIVE CENTER 1-608-299-1500 OR TOLL FREE: 1-800-774-7778

© Copyright - Rock County, Walworth County Head Start / Early Head Start