Western Tidewater Programs

Head Start programs support children's growth from birth to age 5 through school-day/school-year services that support early learning and development, health, and family well-being. Head Start staff actively engage parents, recognizing family participation throughout the program as key to strong child outcomes.

Head Start services are available at no cost to children ages birth to 5 in eligible families. Early Head Start services work with families with children ages birth to 3, and many also serve expectant families. Head Start preschool services work with families with children 3 to 5 years old.

Many programs operate both Head Start preschool and Early Head Start services. Programs deliver child development services in center-based, home-based, or family child care settings. All Head Start programs continually work toward our mission for eligible children and families to receive high-quality services in safe and healthy settings that prepare children for school and life.

Eligibility: 0-4 years old; Child must be of age by September 30.

• Family income is at or below 100% of federal poverty guidelines.
• Family is homeless.
• Family is eligible for public assistance (TANF, SSI or SNAP).
• Child is in foster care.

Mixed Delivery is an opportunity for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds to participate in full-day, full-year preschool.

Children will attend publicly-funded preschool in private settings, guided by family choice. Children will make friends and build relationships with nurturing teachers who will help them grow across all areas of development: physical, cognitive, and social-emotional.

Children in Mixed Delivery classrooms will have access to the same quality features that are available in other publicly-funded preschool classrooms, such as the use of a Virginia Department of Education approved curriculum that meets children’s needs and educators who receive professional supports. Preschool/PreK students are assessed at least twice a year. 

Elibigibility: Infants, Toddlers, 2’s, 3’s and 4 years of age; Child must be of age by September 30.

• Family income is at or below 200% of federal poverty guidelines (view chart with percentages of the guidelines).
• Family is homeless.
• Parents/Guardians did not complete high school.
• Child has an identified disability or is receiving services through early intervention.
• Child is determined eligible by local eligibility criteria that are specific to the Mixed Delivery service area.

The Virginia Preschool Initiative (VPI) provides high-quality school-day/school-year preschool education for children that have been identified as at-risk. Through a focus on advancing effective interaction and instruction, VPI programs help ensure all Virginia children enter school fully prepared for success. 

Elibigibility: *4 years old; Child must be of age by September 30.

• Family income is at or below 200% of federal poverty guidelines (view chart with percentages of the guidelines).
• Family is homeless.
• Parents/Guardians did not complete high school.
• Child has an identified disability or is receiving services through early intervention.
• Child is determined eligible by local eligibility criteria that are specific to the Mixed Delivery service area.

*Some VPI programs serve children 3 years old.