Head Start

The Head Start & Early Head Start Programs are comprehensive child development programs for economically disadvantaged families with children aged birth through 5.  The programs provide educational services, health and mental-health wellness, dental and nutrition services, family engagement opportunities, and services to children with special needs.  We provide two enrollment options:  center based or home based.

The Center Based program provides structured classroom activities five days per week, late August through May, designed to meet the child’s educational, social, physical, and developmental needs.  The center based option is available for children aged 3-5 years old in Greene, Jersey, and Macoupin Counties.

Children enrolled in the Home Based option receive weekly 90 minute home visits by a Home Visitor who works with the parents to plan and provide educational activities for children based on their academic or social needs. Home Based children also participate in Socialization Activities held twice a month, September through May, for interaction with other children from their age group and to promote relationships between families.  Enrollment options for the Home Based program is available for children aged three through 5 years old in Macoupin County and Greene County, and for children aged birth through 3 years old in Macoupin County.

Parent and community involvement, as well as collaborative efforts, are an important aspect of the project and are accomplished through the establishment of Parent Committees and the Policy Council. The goal of the Head Start Program is to ensure that children have access to the experiences and opportunities necessary for their development and later success in public school and life.

For more information on the program, please call 217-839-4431.

Service Areas: Calhoun, Greene, Jersey, and Macoupin Counties

If you have a child between the ages of 0 to 5 who would benefit from Head Start or Early Head Start, feel free to contact the Head Start Office in your county.

Macoupin County

223 S. Macoupin Street

Gillespie, IL 62033

(217)839-4431

Greene County

320 N 5th Street

Carrollton, IL 62016

(217)942-6824

Jersey County

405 Mounds St.

Jerseyville, IL

(618)498-9521

Calhoun County

101 E. Main Street

Hardin, IL 62047

(618)576-2218