Head Start / ECEAP
Head Start and ECEAP are federally- and state-funded free preschool programs for qualifying families. The Hewins Early Learning Center enrolls over 200 children in these programs each year. The ELC offers AM and PM classes to families residing in the Franklin Pierce School District. Children must be 3 or 4 years old by August 31st of the school year. For children younger than 3 years old, Early Head Start home visiting may be an option. If you have questions about the program or need assistance with enrollment please contact Melissa McPheeters, Family Support ERSEA Specialist at (253) 298-4675.
Apply to Head Start or ECEAP
Families may apply for Head Start and ECEAP by completing the forms below and submitting them to the Early Learning Center.
To apply for the 2019-2020 school year, please complete the application below and provide the required documents which include: proof of income, proof of child's date of birth, proof of guardianship, proof of family size, and immunization record. You must submit a completed packet in order to process your application and be placed on a waiting list.
En Español:
19-20AppSpanish.pdf
What are Head Start and ECEAP?
Head Start and ECEAP (Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program) are offered through part-day models at the ELC. Classes are typically 3.5 hours, four days per week. AM sessions are 8:30-12:00 and PM sessions are 12:00-3:30. Classrooms have 16-19 children enrolled, with a Lead Teacher and Assistant Teacher providing evidence-based curriculum to prepare children for Kindergarten and beyond. Families will also be assigned to a Family Support Specialist who can assist with goal-setting, resources, and preparing the family for the child's transition to Kindergarten.
In order to determine eligibility, families must complete the Head Start/ECEAP application form with supporting documents and return them to the Early Learning Center for processing. Family Support Specialists will review the application and documents to determine eligibility. Once eligible, students selected from the waitlist will be enrolled and able to start preschool!
Classes are usually on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Our Parent Calendar will show which days classes are in session. Both Head Start and ECEAP programs are HALF day programs; morning session and afternoon session.
Transportation is provided as long as you qualify and your home address determines which session your child will be enrolled in. Typically, students living north of 112th St. are morning, and students living south of 112th St. are afternoon.
