Head Start/Early Head Start Program

Enrollment and Eligibility

 

Eligibility Requirements 2013-2014:

Head Start eligibility requirements are determines by legislation. Eligibility requirements for 2013-14 school year are:

 

Age:

The TCOC Head Start Program served preschool age children. To be eligible for the 2013-14 program year a child’s birth date must fall between 09/01/08-08/31/10.

 

Income:

For a child to be eligible for program enrollment, the “family” income must meet the 100% of poverty criteria as determined by the Federal Government.

       

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For family units with more than 8 members, add $ 4,020 for each additional member to arrive at

yearly amounts for 100%.

 

 

Income Exceptions

At least 10% of program slots are reserved for children with disabilities. A child with a diagnosed disability may be considered for enrollment regardless of income.

Foster Children: A foster child is considered a family of 1. Income verification is not required.

Public Assistance: TANF (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) or SSI: Families receiving regular, ongoing services or benefits through the TANF or SSI Programs are automatically eligible for enrollment.

 

Selection Criteria

The Head Start Policy Council has developed criteria for selecting children for enrollment form all those that have been verified as “eligible” based on age and income criteria.  The intent is to insure that the children and families with the most need have priority for enrollment. A range of point values are awarded based on the criteria of a child’s age, family composition, disability status; income and special considerations within the immediate family.

 

Recruitment Procedures

Referrals for the program are gathered from a variety of resources. Program staff make home visits to the parent’s home to explain the program in more detail and complete required application paperwork.

This visit usually takes 1 1/2 hours.

 

To inquire about registering your child please have the following information ready; i.e. child’s name and birth date, parent’s name, address and phone number. Contact the TCOC Head Start Program at: Phone 815-625-7830 or 

1-800-323-5434

 

Head Start Links:

 

Illinois Head Start Association

www.ilheadstart.org

 

National Head Start Association

 www.nhsa.org

Early Head Start Program  /  Program Options  /  Family and Community Services  /  Enrollment & Eligibility   /   Program Staff & Centers  /  Program Documents  / Calendar of Events

405 Emmons Avenue, P.O. Box 610, Rock Falls, IL 61071

PH: 815/625-7830

TOLL FREE: 1-800-323-5434