Head Start & Great Start Readiness Preschool
Our Head Start and Great Start Readiness Preschool programs support the growth and school readiness of children ages 3 and 4 in a fun and nurturing environment.
Both are high-quality preschool programs available at reduced or no cost for low-income families with children ages three and four with classrooms located throughout Livingston County in both local schools and community-based partner programs.
Both use a research-based curriculum in a supportive learning environment to assist children in developing skills to be ready for kindergarten and beyond.
The main difference is that Head Start is a federally funded program for 3- and 4-year-olds, and Great Start Readiness Preschool is a state-funded program for 4-year-olds.
Both programs are available at reduced or no cost for low-income families with children ages 3 and 4. Families and children experiencing homelessness, children in the foster care system, and children with disabilities and other special needs are also eligible.
2023-2024 Enrollment
To enroll your child for the 2023-2024 school year, please complete an enrollment form. Once you have completed the form, a member of our Early Childhood staff will contact you to discuss enrollment options.
2024-2025 Enrollment
To enroll your child for the 2024-2025 school year, please complete an enrollment form. Once you have completed the form, a member of our Early Childhood staff will contact you to discuss enrollment options.
Physical & Mental Health
Health and physical development are crucial for your child’s learning.
All children receive health screenings and nutritious meals, and programs connect families with medical, dental, and mental health services to ensure children receive the care and attention they need.
Early Learning & Development
We focus on helping preschoolers develop the skills needed to succeed in school. Our attention to the whole child focuses on literacy, math, and social and emotional development.
Children learn to negotiate, problem-solve, and develop empathy as they interact with their peers and other adults in early childhood settings.
Activities to develop gross and fine motor skills are included daily to make sure all five of the dimensions of readiness are addressed.
We work with families, school districts, and community agencies to facilitate a smooth transition to kindergarten for each child.
Family Involvement
Family involvement during the preschool years is encouraged, and all programs provide multiple opportunities for parents to participate in their child’s experience.
Eligibility Factors
Low family income
Diagnosed disability
Single parent home due to divorce, deployment, incarceration, or illness
Sibling issues
Identified developmental delay
Severe or challenging behavior
Change in guardianship
Family is homeless or without stable housing
English as a second language
Family history of school difficulties
Parental loss
Prenatal or postnatal exposure to toxicants
Program Locations
Local District Locations
Brighton
Miller Early Childhood Center
Fowlerville
Munn Early Childhood Center
Hartland
Hartland Community Education Center
Howell
Livingston ESA Education Center
Little Highlander's Early Learning Center
Pinckney
Country Elementary
Community-based Partner Locations
Brighton
Tot Spot
Fowlerville
Little Glad Preschool
Pinckney
Down on the Farm Preschool
Pinckney Community Schools
For Kids Sake
Howell
Little Highlanders Learning Center
Little Country Kids
Great Start Readiness Age & Income Requirements
Age Requirements
Children must be age 4 on or before December 1, 2024 (for the 2024-2025 school year)
Income Eligibility Guidelines
Head Start Preschool Age & Income Requirements
Age Requirements
Children ages 3 and 4 from families with low income, according to the Poverty Guidelines published by the Federal government, are eligible for Head Start services.
Income Eligibility Guidelines
Annual Household Income Limits (before taxes)
|
Household Size* |
Maximum Income Level (Per Year) |
| 1 | $15,060 |
| 2 | $20,440 |
| 3 | $25,820 |
| 4 | $31,200 |
| 5 | $36,580 |
| 6 | $41,960 |
| 7 | $47,340 |
| 8 | $52,720 |
*For households with more than eight people, add $5,380 per additional person.