Center-Based Childcare/Head Start


 

Who is eligible?

  • Families with children ages 3 to 5 years that meet income guidelines and who are working, in school, or training are eligible. 

What can families expect? 

  • Preschoolers are cared for in safe and nurturing classrooms with a low teacher to child ratio.

  • All Preschool Childcare classrooms are a Step 4 on Maine’s Quality Rating and Improvement Scale (QRIS).

  • Using Opening the World of Learning (OWL) curriculum, highly qualified teachers offer learning experiences to promote each child’ readiness for school and beyond. 

  • Through planned instruction and open-ended play, children grow in their understanding and use of language, learn early math and science concepts, develop relationships with other children and adults and grow confidence in themselves as learners.

  • Teachers support and strengthen parent-child relationships and engage families around children’s learning and development

  • Children receive health, dental, and development screenings; nutritious meals, and support around emotional needs. Family Advocates work with parents to ensure that children are receiving the services they need.

River5.jpeg
  • Parents and families are supported in achieving their own goals, such as finding safe and affordable housing, continuing their own education, and taking care of their families’ financial needs.  

Where is preschool childcare offered? 

When is childcare offered?

  • East End: Childcare is offered daily 7:30AM – 5:00PM year-round.

  • Marshland: Childcare is offered daily 8:00AM - 1:45PM year round.

    Children’s schedules are based upon the individual needs of their family. 

What is the cost?

  • Tuition is based on each child’s individual childcare subsidy. 

Are interpreters provided?

  • Interpreters are available as needed at no cost to the family.

resources

For general inquiries contact our Main Office:
Phone: (207) 553-5851 Email:
ECE-EnrollmentOffice@opportunityalliance.org

To Apply Now Click Here

Address:
50 Lydia Lane, South Portland, ME 04106

 

This website is supported by Grant Number 01CH012275 from the Office of Head Start within the Administration for Children and Families, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Neither the Administration for Children and Families nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse this website (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of The Opportunity Alliance and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Administration for Children and Families and the Office of Head Start.