Time to read
1 minute
Read so far

Head Start, Pre-K spots still open

0 comments
Albany News

By Donnie A. Lucas

There are several positions open for students who qualify for either the Head Start Program or the Pre-K Program at Nancy Smith Elelmentary.

Parents who are interested in having a child participate in either program should contact the school to determine if they qualify.

“As of Monday we had 17 students total enrolled in those two programs,” said Leigh Lowe, director of student services. “There are still 10 to 12 spots available, but you have to qualify to participate.”

Any new or returning families can obtain applications at the elementary office for either program.

“Anyone interested should call the grade school to arrange for a time to come in,” Lowe said. “There are staff meetings happening this week, so it would be better to call first.”

The telephone number at the school is 325-762-3384.

Head Start

Requirements

Documents required to apply for Head Start are income verification (tax return or pay stubs), birth certificate, immunization records, insurance card, CHIPS or Medicaid information, social security card, and proof of residency (parent’s driver’s license or identification card).

Head Start Family Services director Anabel Martinez will work with families to determine eligibility and complete the official enrollment paperwork.

There are automatic qualifiers for both program including members of military families, students in foster care, ESL students, and families that with certain income levels.

Students can also qualify if special education services are needed, but only after an evaluation is conducted and the student requires intervention services.

Pre-K Program

Lowe said parents of students who do not qualify for Head Start can also apply for the pre-kindergarten program that is offered by the district.

Parents will need to provide proof of income.

Students who will be four years of age prior to Sept. 1 have priority over younger students if space is limited, but right now there is not a waiting list.

Criteria to qualify for the program include any one or more of the following qualifiers: eligible for free or reduced lunch program, having a parent who is on active duty in the military or who was injured or killed during military service, homeless children, students unable to speak and comprehend English, children receiving CPS services, and children of a Star of Texas award winner.

All students being registered will need a copy of the child’s birth certificate, student’s social security number, proof of residency, and parent’s driver’s license or identification card.