Head Start is more than a child care program. We provide comprehensive, wraparound services that support the whole child and the entire family.

In addition to high-quality early learning, children and families receive health and developmental screenings, nutritious meals, family support services, and connections to community resources. We partner with parents and caregivers to help children build the skills they need for success in school and in life while supporting families as they work toward their own goals.

Head Start welcomes children and families of all abilities and backgrounds. We offer two program options designed to meet the unique needs of each family, ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

Home-Based

  • Prenatal individuals and children ages birth - 5 years old
  • We come to you and provide services right in your home once a week
  • Twice monthly socializations offer fun activities, nutritious meals/snacks, and opportunities for children and parents to meet and interact with other families from their community

Center-Based

Toddler Classrooms:  Head Start operates 2 Toddler Classrooms for children ages 18 months - 3 years old in Oneonta.  This program option operates year-round.

Preschool Classrooms:  Head Start operates multiple classrooms across Otsego County for children ages 3 years - 5 years old. Preschool classrooms follow the local school calendar. Hours vary by location. Locations include:

  • Cooperstown
  • Morris
  • Oneonta: River Street
  • Oneonta: SUNY Campus
  • Richfield Springs
  • Schenevus
  • Unadilla
Children must be three years to enroll in Head Start Preschool programs.  Children may begin in the Fall if their 3rd birthday is before December 1st. Children turning three after December 1st, may enroll after their 3rd birthday. 

 

Universal Pre-kindergarten (UPK): Head Start partners with Oneonta City School District to offer Universal Pre-kindergarten (UPK) at the SUNY Oneonta Head Start center. UPK is a high-quality educational program that prepares your four-year-old for future school success by developing strong foundational skills in early literacy and numeracy. To be eligible for this free program, the child must reside in the Oneonta School District area and must turn four years of age by December 1st of the program year. Learn more.

 

Apply Today

Head Start is now enrolling for the 2026-2027 program year.

Locations

Learn about our centers and find the nearest Head Start Center

Check Your Eligibility

Self-screen to see if you may qualify for Head Start

 

 

Listen to Megan Martin, Planning & Research Director explain Head Start program options, services, and eligiblity during her interview with Eric Malanoski on Townsquare Media "This Week in Central New York".

Family Resources:

This program funded by:

For more information:

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Mental Health Resources

  • Otsego County Mental Health Clinic – 607.433.2334 for outpatient therapy
  • Mobile Crisis assessment Team (MCAT) – 1.844.732.6228 – A team of people who will come to your home to provide emergency mental health needs.
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 988 or 1.800.273.8255 - Provides resources and support for those in distress. 
  • Warm Line - 607.433.0661 or 1.800.377.3281 – Call if you need to talk when you feel sad and lonely.  This is not a crisis hotline.

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