Head Start, PreK spots open

By Donnie A. Lucas

Parents who are interested in having a child participate in either the Head Start or the Pre-K Program should attend one of the two remaining in-person registration days to determine if they qualify.

There are still spots available for both the Head-Start and Pre-K programs offered at Nancy Smith Elementary School.

“We would rather have those parents come during the in-person registration days, but if they can’t do that, they can come to the grade school during regular office hours,” principal John Gallagher said.

In-person registration is being conducted Thursday (today) from 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., and again on Monday, Aug. 8 from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the high school. Elementary staff will be on hand at the high school to assist parents of elementary students.

Any new or returning families can pick up applications at the high school during in-person registration days for either program.

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 qualifers for both programs including members of military families, students in foster care, ESL students, and families that have 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

Gallagher said parents of students who do not qualify for Head Start can attend one of the in-person registration dates to see if they qualify for pre-kindergarten that is offered by the district.

Parents enrolling students in pre-kindergarten 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.

Call NSES with question about Head Start and pre-registration for Pre-K at 325-762-3384 during office hours.