Head Start Program

Every child deserves a great head start.

 

The nationally recognized Head Start program gives children ages 2.9-5 an extra boost heading into kindergarten.

Our preschool program allows caregivers peace of mind knowing that their child is learning and growing in a safe and healthy environment. Our Head Start program provides children the support they need to enter kindergarten prepared academically, socially, and physically.

Like all of our comprehensive, all-inclusive educational programming, Head Start offers meals, nutrition assessment, health and developmental screenings, referrals for special education services, family support, enrichment programs, and field trips.

We believe that parents are their child’s first and most important teachers. When a child enrolls in Head Start at Pathways for Children, we support the whole family with frequent communication, resources, and services.

For families and children whose primary language is not English, Pathways has teachers and interpreters available to help access the program.

 
  1. Small Classes

  2. Highly Qualified Staff

  3. Nutritional Meals Provided

  4. Translation Services Available

  5. Family Support Provided

  6. Indoor & Outdoor Play Spaces

  7. High-Quality Learning Environments

  8. Results-Driven Curriculum

  9. No Cost to Eligible Families

A calendar icon

Schedule

September-June:

Monday-Friday
Our preschool classrooms run 5.5 hours/5 days a week in Gloucester, Salem & Beverly

During Summer Break -Preschool child care is available in Gloucester only.

A pencil icon

Registration

Open to children from 2.9-5 years old living in Beverly, Boxford, Danvers, Essex, Gloucester, Hamilton, Ipswich, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Middleton, Peabody, Salem, Topsfield, Rockport, Wenham.

A dollar bill

Cost

Costs range on a sliding scale, dependent on income and family circumstances. For many of our families, there is no cost.

“Pathways and our social worker have been a blessing for our family. Our social worker tries to help us in every way she can–always keeping an eye out for families.”

— Yesenia & Kelvin, Head Start parents

Locations

Gloucester

29 Emerson Ave
Gloucester, MA 01930

Beverly

292 Cabot Street
Beverly, MA 01915

salem

79 Willson Street
Salem, MA 01970

FAQs

+ Does my family qualify for Head Start?

First, a child must meet the following requirements: 

  • Be between 2.9-5 years old
  • Reside in Beverly, Boxford, Danvers, Essex, Gloucester, Hamilton, Ipswich, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Middleton, Peabody, Salem, Topsfield, Rockport, or Wenham

Then, there are multiple paths to Head Start. 

  • As a family with low income
  • As a family experiencing homelessness
  • As a family receiving public assistance (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or Supplemental Security Income) 
  • As a child in foster care

The requirements can be complex. We recommend reaching out for a conversation with an Admissions team member to help.

+ Where are your Head Start programs located?

We have Head Start programs in three center locations: Beverly, Gloucester, and Salem, Massachusetts.

+ What is the cost?

Costs range on a a sliding scale, dependent on income and family circumstances. For many of our families, there is no cost.

 Ready to get started?