QUICK LINKS | Early Childhood Programs
Berks County Head Start
Free Preschool for Qualifying Families
The Berks County Head Start program is a comprehensive preschool program free of charge to qualifying families. The Berks County Head Start program is dedicated to supporting the growth and development of preschool children ages three years through five years old. In order to qualify, families must meet the income guidelines established by the federal government. A family’s income must not exceed 100% of the federal poverty rate.
The Berks County Head Start program serves 505 students in 30 classrooms throughout Berks County. All attempts are made to enroll children in locations close to their homes. Classrooms operate 6 hours a day, 5 days a week, following a typical school year format.
The Head Start program focuses developing the whole child, providing high-quality early learning education alongside comprehensive services including: school readiness development, parent involvement and engagement, social services, health and nutrition support, mental and behavioral health supports, and supports for children with disabilities.
Enrollment Information
To enroll your child, you can download the application through the link below or contact the Head Start Program at 610-987-8236 o para información en español llame al 610-987-8237.
Return your completed application along with a current copy of your child’s immunization record, physical, and dental exam. Please also include evidence of your previous year’s income. Submitting the required documents will expedite your enrollment process. Return your completed application to:
BCIU Head Start
Attn: Juli Schaeffer
P.O. Box 16050
Reading, PA 19612-6050
or
Fax: 610-898-8905, Attn: Juli Schaeffer
Does your child qualify? Find out today!
Complete the Head Start Pre-Screening to get in contact with a representative from the BCIU Early Childhood team.