Head Start is a no-cost, parent-focused early childhood program for children, ages 0-5, from low-income households and their families. We work to increase social skills and school readiness for young children while increasing self-sufficiency for families. Services for expectant parents are also available.
Home-Based Locations
Home-Based Head Start is offered in seven counties in western South Dakota:
- Custer
- Fall River
- Haakon
- Jackson
- Lawrence
- Meade
- Pennington
How It Works
Qualified and caring teachers:
- Travel to the child's home, weekly
- Plan fun, individualized learning activities
- Interact with the child and parents to complete activities
- Plan social gatherings so children can interact with others
- Encourage parents to be their child's primary educator and advocate
Quality Pre-K is Important
Head Start will help my child:
- Learn and grow
- Be ready for kindergarten
- Interact with a teacher
- Gain new skills
- Be creative and solve problems
- Get along with others
- Have a Head Start in life
Contact Home-Based Head Start
Custer/Fall River Counties
346 S. Chicago Street
Hot Springs, SD 57747
Jackson/Haakon Counties
809 Main Street
Kadoka, SD 57543
Lawrence County
236 W. Jackson Boulevard
Spearfish, SD 57543
Meade County
2112 Dolan Creek Road
Sturgis, SD 57783
Pennington County
1920 N. Plaza Boulevard
Rapid City, SD 57702
Send Mail
Youth & Family Services
Home-Based Head Start
PO Box 2813
Rapid City, SD 57709-2813
605-342-4195
Learn More
Fill out this short form. A staff member will contact you to answer your questions and assist you.
Complete an enrollment application today!
To apply for Head Start, please download the application form below, complete it, and return to Youth & Family Services.
Have other questions?
Call (605) 342-4195 today!
We're happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
1What are the income guidelines to qualify for Head Start?
Income guidelines are set by the federal government each year. We can help you determine if your family qualifies based on income, family size, and a few other factors. Call or fill out the interest form today!
2Are there other ways to qualify?
Yes! If you have documentation that your family qualifies for Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or if your child is in foster care, a kinship placement, or experiencing homelessness.
3Is proof of income required?
Proof of income is required with your application. Everyone is encouraged to apply regardless of income as a limited number of over-income spots are available.
4What type of income verification do I need?
The following items can be used for verification purposes: income tax form 1040, W-2, or current pay stub, unemployment documentation, written statements from employer, SNAP or public assistance award letter, or foster placement documentation.
5What if my child has a disability?
Head Start programs are required to serve a minimum of 10% of their enrollment with children who have disabilities. This requirement applies regardless of the child's family income, meaning children with disabilities can be enrolled even if their families' income is above the poverty guidelines. Head Start programs prioritize enrolling children eligible for services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Head Start® is a registered trademark of HHS.