Frequently Asked Questions:
How to Apply
Applications are accepted year-round for all children who are 2.9 to 4.11 years old, regardless of race, color, gender, creed, national origin, or disability. Applicants must meet the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Make an application appointment in person by calling 212-875-4737. We are located at 535 East 5th Street between Avenue A and Avenue B. Please bring the following documents to your appointment:
- Certified Birth Certificate
- Verification of Income
- Immunization Health Card
- Two Proofs of Address
- Child’s Medical Insurance Card (if available)
- Completed Residency Questionnaire, which is available in English (pdf), Spanish (pdf), and Chinese (pdf) translation
- Completed Application*, which is available in English/Spanish (pdf) or English/Chinese (pdf) translation. Instructions for completing your application are also available in English (pdf), Spanish (pdf), and Chinese (pdf).
*Please download and complete the application and bring it with you to your application appointment. If you cannot print out the application, it can be filled out at your appointment.
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How much does the program cost?
Head Start is a free program to eligible families. Eligibility is based upon income.
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Is the program open all year?
The program operates from the first week of September through the first week of August.
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What are the hours?
Most children attend Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Early pickup at 2:30 PM is available for families who have siblings attending other schools. There is a limited number of slots available for our Extended Day program, which runs until 5:30 PM.
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Is early drop-off available?
The earliest children can be dropped off is 8:30 AM.
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Can children attend part-time?
No. All children must be enrolled full-time, five days per week.
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What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
Seven children to one teacher.
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Do children need to be toilet-trained?
We work with parents to support this developmental milestone.