Both preschool programs provide an excellent opportunity for children to learn in a safe, encouraging environment. Both programs are focused on giving children the best classroom experience possible to prepare them for kindergarten.
Head Start is a program that provides additional support for families beyond the classroom. The program works closely with families to help enhance the child's overall health and nutrition and help parents with their child's mental, social, and emotional needs. While Head Start gives priority for enrollment to four year-old children, some classrooms are available to three year-olds. Almost all Head Start families must have an income below 100% of the federal poverty level.
Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) is only available to four year-old children. Eligibility for GSRP requires that family income is below 250% of the federal poverty guidelines with priority given to children based on family income. So the lower the family income, the better the chances for your child to be placed in Head Start or GSRP.