YFS Rapid City Head Start

Head Start is a no-cost, parent-focused preschool program that serves children, ages 0-5, from low-income homes and their families. We work to increase social skills and school readiness for young children while increasing the self-sufficiency for families. 

Rapid City Head Start offers preschool programming in a classroom environment. Our caring and highly qualified teachers design curriculum and activities that are fun, developmentally appropriate, and individualized. We recognize parents as children's primary educators and advocates and encourage parent involvement in nearly every aspect of the program. 

Preschool

Rapid City Head Start offers preschool programming in a classroom environment. Both extended-day and half-day options are available. Children receive breakfast or lunch and/or a nutritious snack.

Rapid City Head Start assists families who need transportation by busing as many children as possible to and from our sites.

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Want to learn more?

Fill out this short form. A YFS Head Start staff member will contact you to answer your questions and see which program works best for your family!
Interest Form
 

Ready to apply? Complete an enrollment application today!

YFS Head Start gives priority to families who meet the household income guidelines or have children with disabilities. Income guidelines are established by the federal government each year. All services are free of charge for participants who qualify.
To apply for Head Start, please download the application form below, complete it, and return to Youth & Family Services.
Download a Child Enrollment Application
 

Attention Parents

We have openings! Call 341-6448 today!

Why enroll my child in preschool?

*To help them learn and grow
*To help them be ready for kindergarten
*To provide them a place to make new friends
*To help them share and get along
*To encourage them to be creative
*To give them a Head Start in life
*It's fun!
Meals are also provided!

Why choose YFS?

*Individualized learning plans
*High quality programming
*Trained and caring staff 
*Safe and dependable 
*Parent involvement is encouraged
*Convenient locations
*Head Start is available at NO cost to families
*We care about you

How do I qualify?

Head Start does have income guidelines, but you may qualify now even if you have not in the past. We will help you determine if it will work for your family!
Call 341-6448 today!

An application is also available for download. Just fill it out & return to Youth & Family Services.

Contact Rapid City Head Start

Stop in or call the desired location

Monroe Site

605-341-6448

410 E. Monroe St.
Rapid City, SD 57701

East Adams Site

605-342-4233

120 East Adams St.
Rapid City, SD 57701

Douglas Site

605-923-0018

421 Don Williams Dr.
Box Elder, SD 57719

Send Mail

Youth & Family Services
Rapid City Head Start
PO Box 2813
Rapid City, SD 57709-2813

Head Start Child Development and Learning Framework

The guiding principles of the Framework have been fundamental to the Head Start program from its inception in 1965. These principles provide the foundation for program policies and practices that prepare young children for success in school and beyond.

Each child is unique and can succeed.

Children are individuals with different rates and paths of development. Each child is uniquely influenced by their prenatal environment, temperament, physiology, and life experiences. With the appropriate support, all children can be successful learners and achieve the skills, behaviors, and knowledge described in the Framework.

Learning occurs within the context of relationships.

Caring families, teachers, and other adults matter in a young child’s life. Responsive and supportive interactions with adults are essential to children’s learning.

Families are children’s first and most important caregivers, teachers, and advocates.

Families must be respected and supported as the primary influence in their child’s early learning and education. Their knowledge, skills, and cultural backgrounds contribute to children’s school readiness.

Children learn best when they are emotionally and physically safe and secure.

Nurturing, responsive, and consistent care helps create safe environments where children feel secure and valued. In these settings, children are able to engage fully in learning experiences.
Head Start® is a registered trademark of HHS.