What is the primary target demographic for the Head Start program?

The Head Start program is fundamentally designed to serve low-income preschool children. Its primary mission is to promote school readiness for children from disadvantaged backgrounds by providing comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and social services. This focus aims to help break the cycle of poverty and give children the same opportunities for success in school as their more affluent peers.

By targeting low-income families, Head Start addresses the specific challenges faced by these children, such as limited access to resources that support development, education, and overall well-being. The program is structured not only to prepare children for academic success but also to foster their social and emotional growth, thereby helping to level the playing field in early education and development.