Head Start

Question 1

How do I apply?

Answer

Download the application on the "Contact and Apply" page, or stop by and pick up an application in person. Bring the completed application, a picture ID, Social Security cards for all family members (if possible), proof of income (see application packet for details), birth documents for your child, and current immunization records to the school. Amber will then contact you to schedule a face-to-face interview, where she will get to know you and may ask you a little more about your living situation, family, and finances. This information is solely used for selection criteria. Head Start of Laramie is an Equal Opportunity provider and does not discriminate on basis of race, age, gender, sexual orientation, or any other life circumstances.

Question 2

How are children selected?

Answer

Once a complete application packet is turned in, a selection committee gathers to determine eligibility for each applicant. The committee may include Head Start staff, and members of the Board of Directors. The committee first looks at age and income eligibility, then will weigh a number of other circumstances that are in a child's life. We are able to accept 75 children, and maintain an active waitlist, all year-round.

Question 3

How much does Head Start cost?

Answer

Head Start is completely free for each and every family!

Question 4

What will my child do at Head Start?

Answer

While COVID-19 is present in our community, times look a little different, but our philosophy and practices remain the same. During this time, children are at school for a morning OR afternoon session. Each session is served lunch and either breakfast or an afternoon snack. Keep reading to hear more about what the day looks like. Our days are structured to foster development of the whole child, each day. Children arrive between 7:45 and 8:00, and are served a nutritious breakfast. In the morning, each classroom plans interactive, hands-on exploration opportunities where children practice academic skills, social skills, and actively build knowledge. These include activities in the classroom, in the gym, and on the playground! At 11:00 we serve lunch. Like at breakfast, children and teachers eat family-style. Teachers encourage children to try new foods, practice manners and self-help skills, and converse with eachother. After lunch, more learning opportunities are offered, as well as a rest-time where children are supported in calming their bodies, relaxing, and are allowed to take a nap-if needed. At 1:30, snack is served, similarly to the other meals. Children are then offered more activites to explore, and parents begin arriving around 2:00-2:45.

Question 5

Does my child need to be potty trained?

Answer

No! We accept children of all ability levels and skill-sets. Part of our curriculum is to teach independence and self-help skills. Potty training is part of this for some of our students.

Question 6

What if my child has a disability or special need?

Answer

Our highly-qualified teachers individualize all of their instruction. They adapt lessons and activities to each child's needs and ability-levels so that all children can be involved. If your child has a disability, we work with Developmental Preschool and Daycare specialists to provide your child with any services they may require. Furthermore, our health coordinator and kitchen staff ensure that all nutrition, allergy needs, and religious diets are accomodated for. When you do your face-to-face interview, simply let us know about these needs so we are prepared when your child starts school.

Question 7

Will I need to provide supplies, lunch, or snacks?

Answer

No! We provide all school supplies and classroom materials. We also serve breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack. All of our meals are prepared in-house, per CACFP guidelines to meet all of our children's nutrition and developmental needs.

Question 8

Who do I talk to if I have a complaint?

Answer

We welcome all feedback! If you have questions, comments, or concerns about a classroom matter, reach out to your teacher first. If you need further assistance, contact the Education Coordinator. If you have health, safety, or nutrition questions, comments, or concerns, contact the Health Coordinator. If you have questions, comments, or concerns reguarding family circumstances, enrollment, or attendance contact the Family/Community Partnership Coordinator, or your assigned Family Advocate. If you feel you need to speak directly to our director, she is always available by phone and/or appointment. Please call (307) 742-6792 to make an appointment.

Question 9

What precautions are you taking regarding COVID-19?

Answer

The health and safety of our students, families and staff is our top priority. We are following all current CDC and Wyoming Department of Health guidance. Because this information changes frequently, check out their websites, or call our office and talk to our health coordinator for more, up-to-date specifics. CDC guidance: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/index.html WDH guidance: https://health.wyo.gov/publichealth/infectious-disease-epidemiology-unit/disease/novel-coronavirus/covid-19-orders-and-guidance/ Our Office: (307) 742-6792

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Head Start

of Laramie

Location

Scroll down to find applications for children and staff.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions