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Thank you for your interest in Champlain Valley Head Start!

Please select an option below to apply now or request more information.

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Application Forms

Child Application Submission Form

Download an Application Packet for a Child HERE and Mail to our Office.

Pregnancy Support Program Submission Form

Download an Application Packet for a Pregnancy Services HERE and Mail to our Office.

Enrollment Interest Form

Not ready to apply yet? Submit a general interest form and we’ll contact you.

Eligibility

Champlain Valley Head Start is a federally funded program which is required to follow eligibility guidelines as determined by the U.S. Administration for Children and Families. We are also able to enroll a limited numbers of families who do not meet the criteria.

Program Expectations

Head Start is a federally-funded program and we are responsible for making sure we are doing everything we can to help children to grow and do well in school and in life. In order to achieve these goals, Head Start partners with parents to assure that children receive all required services, and we like to let parents know what to expect in terms of parents’ responsibilities in Head Start.

Frequently Asked Questions

Enrollment FAQs

How much does it cost for my child and family to enroll and participate in CVHS?

All services provided by CVHS are free. CVHS does ask all families to apply for additional funding for which they may be eligible, including state pre-k funds (also known as Act 166 funding) and Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFAP). Families who are not eligible for these funds may still enroll at no cost. Some services provided by collaborative partner child care centers do have a fee. These fees are not part of CVHS, and are paid directly to the partner childcare centers for non-CVHS services. Families often receive Child Care Financial Assistance (also known as “subsidy”) to help pay these fees.
Click Here for more information about Child Care Financial Assistance/VT Department of Children & Families. Assistance is available for filling out the application for financial assistance/subsidy.

There is no Head Start classroom listed for my town. Are there Head Start programs available for my child and family?

CVHS does not have classrooms in every town. Most of our sites are open to families who live or work in one of the following counties: Addison, Chittenden, Franklin, and Grand Isle.

Does CVHS provide transportation?

CVHS does not provide transportation. Head Start staff are available to talk with families about transportation needs and will refer families to resources available in local communities.

When should I submit an application for enrollment?

If applying for next school year (starting in September), then it’s best to submit applications as early in the calendar year as possible. We also accept applications throughout the year and fill spots as vacancies arise.

When will I be notified that my child/family has been accepted?

Our first round of acceptance is in early spring. We try to notify families as early as possible.

How does CVHS decide which children/families will be enrolled?

Enrollment decisions are based on child and family need. The two biggest factors are income eligibility and the age of the child. Other family needs may also be used to help prioritize children/families for enrollment. This information comes directly from your application.

Do you have a waitlist?

Yes, CVHS maintains a waitlist throughout the year. Families may choose to have their child on the waitlist for more than one CVHS site/program. We will contact you if we have a possible opening for your child

Do you have openings during the school year?

Yes, CVHS frequently has openings that occur during the school year. The only way to ensure that your child is considered for an opening is to submit an application so that your child is already on the waitlist.

My child will be 3 years old in November – can they enroll this year?

For preschool programs: children must be 3 years old by September 1st of that school year.
For infant/toddler programs: children can enroll up until the child turns 3 years of age.
A child who turns 3 years after September 1st may be considered for enrollment, after they turn three, but priority is given to income eligible children who are 3 before the September 1st cutoff date.

I think my family may be over the income requirements for your program – should I still apply?

Yes! But first, give us a call or email us to learn more.
Or, fill out our interest form to share your contact information with us. Even if you are determined to be over the income requirements, CVHS is able to enroll a limited number of over-income participants. Please reach out to us!

Find the Program for You

CVHS offers an array of services which promote school readiness for children and provide support for parents. Our expectant parent and home visiting programs are available when it works best for you!