Ararat Head Start Center

Head Start is a comprehensive education, health, nutrition and parent involvement program that was created in 1965. Nearly 25 million pre-school aged children across the United States have benefited from Head Start. It is designed to foster the healthy development of three and four year old children from low income families. STEP provides education, nutritious meals, and the opportunity for the social, emotional and intellectual growth that helps to prepare the children for success in school and life. In addition, STEP Head Start provides medical and dental support services. The Head Start approach serves the entire family and seeks to empower both parent and child.

STEP Head Start serves 138 children annually in Franklin and Patrick Counties. Employing approximately thirty five staff, Head Start employees includes teachers, teachers assistants, family service specialist, and transportation personnel.

STEP Head Start has 3 classrooms in Patrick County, 3 classrooms in Rocky Mount, and 4 collaborative classrooms in Franklin County, for a total of 7 classrooms. Our collaborative classrooms are partnerships with Franklin County Schools where our students attend the same class as other Pre-K students in Franklin County. The remaining 6 classrooms are exclusively Head Start.

Child Ages:

3 years - 5 years

Licenses & Accreditations:

Virginia Department of Social Services

Preschool:

Yes

Hours of Operation:

8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Monday - Friday