Mission Statement:  "NRCA Head Start's mission is to maximize the strengths of families, their health and well-being, and the social skills of children."

Head Start is a federally-funded preschool program which offers comprehensive developmental services to children 3-5 years of age. Children with special needs comprise at least ten percent of the enrollment. The primary components of Head Start are education, social services, preventative health and nutrition. The program focuses on the entire family, and includes parent involvement as a fundamental part of Head Start . Classroom-based and home-based options provide each child with a solid foundation for learning. Transportation is provided.

In addition to the educational opportunities for children, Head Start provides many individualized educational skill and involvement opportunities for parents, included among the many avenues are literacy classes, parenting classes, educational and employment training opportunities within and outside Head Start, and parent meetings. Also, parents may serve as representatives on Policy Council, which is the governing body of the Head Start Program.

Over 300 children currently receive services through Head Start centers located throughout the New River Valley . Contact the Head Start administrative office or the local New River Community Action office in your area for more information.