Head Start is a nationwide, federally funded program to promote school readiness by enhancing the social, physical, and cognitive development of children. The program is provided at no cost to families and accepts children ages 3–5 years old (Head Start Pre-School) and ages 18 months to 3 years (Early Head Start – Juneau Only).

Tlingit & Haida Head Start offers center-based classrooms in the following communities shown on the map below. Please note, the Early Head Start program is only available in Juneau at this time.

School begins in late August or early September and closes mid-May for the summer months.

The program promotes school readiness of children by supporting the development of the whole child. We believe in the support of children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment through a variety of services, which include early learning, health, and family well-being through opportunities such as:

• Frequent medical screenings, immunizations, and dental services.
• Healthy nutritional assistance (including free meals and toothbrushing).
• Referral services for a range of individual child and family needs.
• Opportunities for parents to participate in school decision-making.
• Toilet training (including free pull-ups on-site).

Head Start builds relationships with families that support:

• Family well-being and positive parent-child relationships.
• Families and learners and lifelong educators.
• Family engagement in transitions.
• Family connections to peers and community.
• Families as advocates and leaders.

Parents, who have children with diagnosed or suspected disabilities or developmental delays, are encouraged to apply. Disabilities or developmental delays may include, but are not restricted to: speech, health, social, emotional, visual, hearing, and/or physical impairments.

Mission: To respectfully nurture families and their children to grow, participate in life with confidence and awareness, and use their strengths to reach their full potential.