Head Start

Migrant and Seasonal Head Start (MSHS) is a federally funded comprehensive child development program based on four cornerstones:

1. Child Development
2. Family Development
3. Community Building
4. Staff Development

MSHS serves children ages 6 weeks through 5 years and their families who meet the migrant and income guidelines at the Alliance and Scottsbluff sites.

Children are served five days a week, 10 hours each day.

Alliance Site operates April – October. Scottsbluff Site operates June – August.

The overall goal of the Head Start Program is to increase to a greater degree the social competence of young children in low-income families.

To provide a nurturing environment for migrant and seasonal families which empowers families to develop their strengths and talents to provide a brighter future for their children.

To provide a safe, loving, stimulating, fun environment. An environment with a firm foundation conducive to learning that will encourage a positive outlook, increase self esteem and develop confidence, trust and independence.

Migrant and Seasonal families wishing to enroll their children must meet the following requirements:

• Families must move from one geographic location to another within the last 24 months to do agricultural  labor (Migrants)
  At least 51% of the family income must come from agricultural work
• Parents must be working in agriculture or actively seeking work in agriculture during the months of service
• Must meet the poverty level income guidelines (children who come from families with slightly higher income may be able to participate when space is available) once all income eligible children have been enrolled
• Children must be between the ages of 6 weeks and  5 years old. If they turn 6 before May 26th of the service year, they do not qualify
• Children with special needs are given preference when meeting the above criteria.