Head Start FAQ

Visit our Head Start page and complete an online application to begin the enrollment process.

The Head Start program year begins each fall in accordance with the Cleveland Metropolitan School District's academic calendar. However, Early Head Start and Head Start accept applications year-round. If your preferred center is currently full, your child may be placed on a waiting list, and the center will contact you as soon as an opening becomes available.

When a family calls or files an online application to enroll a child, one of Step Forward's recruitment staff will answer the call or follow up on the application. The recruitment staff will complete the application process with the family member and depending on their location preference, will make a referral. At that time, one of Step Forward's Family Service Workers from the particular center will follow up with the family to finalize the enrollment process and gather required documentation to determine eligibility. 

Enrollment at Step Forward's Head Start is a collaborative process and our Family Service Workers are here to assist every step of the way.

To complete the enrollment process, we require certain documents to ensure that we can provide the best care for your child. These include:

• Proof of Birth: Birth Certificate, shot records, birth letter, etc.
• Proof of Income: Two most recent pays stubs, 1040 tax form from previous year, W2, or written statement from employer, etc.
• Proof of Residency
• Medical Card
• Shot Records
• Physical Exam within 30 days of enrollment

Our team is ready to help ensure that you experience a smooth and supportive enrollment experience.

Head Start preschool begins each fall in accordance with the Cleveland Metropolitan School District's academic calendar. However, Early Head Start and Head Start are always accepting new students. If a particular center is full, you can apply and be placed on a waiting list. The center will contact you as soon as a spot is available.

Call (216) 589-9922 or click here to start the enrollment process today. 

Early Head Start and Head Start are available at no cost to income-eligible families. Eligible participants include children whose families are living at or below the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Other eligible participants include children who are in the foster care system and those who are experiencing homelessness.

Our program also accepts a limited number of children who do not meet the aforementioned criteria. Families can call (216) 589-9922 for more information.

Step Forward does not provide transportation to and from the agency's Head Start centers. We have made it our mission to provide seven convenient and accessible locations across Cuyahoga County. Each location can be found here.

Step Forward and Step Forward's Head Start ensure that all children, including those with disabilities, have access to early childhood education. Through our Early Head Start and Head Start programs, we support each child’s development and provide a structured learning environment. Staff is trained to meet various needs, helping children build essential skills.

Early childhood education for children with disabilities is important for their growth. It promotes social interaction, tailored learning experiences, and skill-building. Programs like Head Start offer the resources and support needed to help children succeed.

If a child has a physical or mental disability, they are automatically eligible for Step Forward's Early Head Start or Head Start program. The family will be required to provide medical documentation for the child's diagnosis.

Step Forward provides support for children whose primary language is not English. When a child does not speak English, our programs have bilingual staff members who can communicate with the child and their family. We also make arrangements to help families access our services in their native language, ensuring that language barriers do not prevent participation in our programs.

At Step Forward, we prioritize the health and well-being of all enrolled children. For Early Head Start children, we provide formula and diapers to ensure their basic needs are met. For Head Start children, we offer breakfast, lunch, and a snack as part of our nutrition program. Step Forward's Health and Dental Coordinators collaborate with each center to schedule essential health services, including dental checkups, medical checkups, hearing screenings, and more, ensuring that every child receives the comprehensive care they need to thrive.