EFFECTIVE 07/10/2026: Due to a high volume of applications, CAC has stopped taking ECE applications for the 26/27 School year until further notice. Please check our website regularly for updates. Thank you!
UPDATE 08/20/2026: All Early Head Start grant‑funded seats serving children ages 6 weeks - 2 years old are fully enrolled for the 2026–2027 school year. A limited number of tuition‑based seats for two‑year‑old children remain available. All previously submitted applications are currently under review and will be placed on a waitlist once eligibility is verified.
Previously submitted applications for 3 and 4 year old students continue to be processed, and seats are still available for eligible children in these age groups.
Visit the Children’s Learning Center at HCC if you’re an HCC student.
Early Head Start serves children birth through 36 months of age and Head Start serves children ages 3-4. Early Head Start and Head Start eligibility is based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG). Families must earn below the income guidelines for their household size. Review income guidelines here: Poverty Guidelines | ASPE. Families also can qualify if they receive public assistance (SNAP,TANF, SSI), are experiencing homelessness, or if the child is in foster care.
MSDE PreK serves children ages 3-4. MSDE PreK eligibility serves families up to 300% FPG for their household size. Use the MSDE Pre-K Cost Calculator to determine eligibility and potential family cost share.
Applications accepted all year. Enrollment is currently open for the 26-27 School Year. Classroom and program availability varies by location. Upon application, families will be evaluated for program eligibility.
Please Follow Instructions Carefully. Enrolling is a 2-Step Process. To Enroll Your Child, You Will Need the Following:
