Dedicated to improving the well-being of 2,400+ infants, toddlers, preschoolers and their families

in Clay, Jackson and Platte counties in Missouri

Our mission is to advance young children’s development and learning through effective program administration, community collaboration and family engagement.

Enrollment

Eligibility

Head Start and Early Head Start enrollment is based on factors such as your family’s income and your child’s age. Head Start programs are paid for with federal funds, so if your family qualifies for services you do not pay to enroll. Learn more.

Find a Provider

Our Head Start programs provide comprehensive early learning services to qualifying children and families living in Clay, Platte and Jackson counties. Find a location near you.

Apply

Make an appointment with an enrollment specialist today. Appointments are available for all program sites. Learn more about the application process and what documents you’ll need to bring.

The MARC Head Start Difference

We’ve built a network of providers and support agencies that work together to effectively and efficiently provide quality services to children and their families.

Educational Approach

We promote the learning and development of young children by providing interactive, play-based learning experiences along with engaging environments and interactions.

Health & Nutrition

We understand the link between health and school readiness for children in Head Start and Early Head Start. Healthy children are more successful in school.

Mental Health

Across all our programs, we support a culture that promotes mental health and social and emotional well-being for children.

Disabilities

We coordinate with local school districts, Missouri First Steps and other community agencies to ensure that children’s needs are met in the least restrictive environment.

Parent Leadership & Engagement

Parents are an integral part of program success. We emphasize parent engagement and offer opportunities for parents to take on leadership roles.

Provider Professional Development

Teachers and staff at our service providers receive training and professional development that enable them to provide high-quality, comprehensive services.

Community Involvement

Our programs serve families within the context of their communities. We have formal agreements with many community agencies to ensure a full continuum of family-centered services.

How we help

Stories of success

Joshua T.

“Head Start has helped my family become more self-sufficient. I want people to know that there are agencies like MARC out here that are concerned about our children’s welfare and what’s available to them.”

Berniece W.

“Head Start made a difference in my granddaughter’s life because she wasn’t speaking clearly. After being in Head Start for about two weeks, she was openly talking to people and excited about going to school every day.”

Daniela R.

“Head Start is not child care. Head Start is joining a family. Don’t wait any longer to make the change of your life. Join Head Start now. Not only will your child learn and grow, but you will have the opportunity to grow, too.”

Get Involved

Advocate

You can help educate others about the importance and impact of high-quality early learning on children and families.

Careers

Looking for a career in early learning? Our network providers have many job opportunities in education, health, family and community engagement and program support.

Volunteer

Our network of providers offers many volunteer opportunities. Find out how to share your talent and time.

Contact

Have questions? Please don’t hesitate to contact us at any time.

Donate

Your donations can make a difference for young children and their families. Support the important work of MARC Head Start .