Head Start

Preschool

Inside the Head Start Classroom we see toys and play mats and desks for learningFremont County Head Start is a free, federally funded, center-based preschool for primarily low-income children and their family. Children ages 3 - 5 years of age qualify for this program based on income, age, and need. Children attend Monday - Thursday throughout the “school year”.

Transportation, breakfast, and lunch are provided along with a full array of activities to prepare children for school entrance. Children with special needs or an Individual Education Plan are welcome, and additional needed services will be provided for these children in collaboration with the local school district. We are a fully inclusive program.

Head Start is a program based on “family involvement”. We will offer you a sense of belonging, support services, and a chance to be involved in your child’s early education. You can take part in a variety of training/activities such as:

  • First Aid & CPR
  • Nutrition Classes
  • Family Night Events
  • Family Field Days
  • Parenting Classes
  • GED Preparation Classes

We welcome you any time you want to visit!


Head Start Education

Our program has a Rating of 4 through the Colorado Shines Rating System. We are NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) Accredited, licensed by the state of Colorado, and monitored by the Office of Head Start. In addition, we are a “Pyramid” Demonstration site in Colorado, and all staff are trained in Pyramid strategies which assist with children's positive-social development.

We utilize the “Creative Curriculum” and the Teaching Strategies GOLD assessment system. Both are evidence-based and research supported. All teachers have degrees in Early Childhood Education as well as numerous hours of additional training in various early childhood facets.


Head Start Application

Mission
Fremont County Head Start will provide a quality, respectful, and accountable environment for children, families, staff, and our community through a comprehensive system which promotes healthy relationships leading to lifelong success.

Preschool Registration
Head Start / Universal Preschool

Fremont County Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education services to families in Cañon City, Florence, Penrose, Williamsburg, Coal Creek & Rockvale. Our research-based curriculum and high-quality programming ensure your child gets the best start in their educational journey.

As a Level 4 Quality Shines rated and NAEYC accredited facility, we offer both Head Start and Universal Preschool programs to meet your family's needs.


Head Start Program

Our Head Start program offers 7 hours of free preschool education for qualifying families with children who meet the age requirements.

  • Age Requirement
    Child must be 3 years of age by August 1st, 2025

  • Required Documentation
    Child's birth certificate and income verification

  • How to Apply
    Complete our online application or call (719) 275-8636 to schedule an intake appointment


Universal Preschool Program

The Universal Preschool program provides flexible scheduling options for families with 4-year-old children.

  • Program Hours
    Flexible scheduling offering 15-30 hours per week

  • Age Requirement
    Child must be 4 years of age by August 1st, 2025

  • Enrollment Steps
    Complete the online Universal Preschool application and list Fremont County Head Start as your school of choice


Additional Services

  • Transportation
    Transportation services available for eligible families

  • Location
    1718 Brookside Ave, Cañon City CO

  • Contact Information
    Phone: (719) 275-8636
    Social Media: Find us on Facebook and Instagram @fremontcountyheadstart

Leadership Team
Fremont County Head Start Program
  • Chris Henager, Director
  • Doug Moody, Transportation Manager
  • Jeanne Piper, Enrollment/ Mental Health, Family Service Manager
  • Shelby Wells, Education Manager
  • Juanita Mascarenas, Nutrition Manager
  • Misty Atkins, Disabilities Manager
  • Shawnna Lancaster, Health Manager
  • Rhonda Webb, Family Engagement Manager, Family Service Manager
  • Brianna Santistevan, Office Supervisor
Annual Reviews & Reports
Accountability through Annual Insights

At Fremont County Head Start, transparency and accountability are integral to our mission of empowering children and families in Fremont County, Colorado. In this section, you'll find our latest federal review and annual report, showcasing the dedication, progress, and impact of our work over the past year.


Federal Review
The federal review provides an in-depth evaluation of our program's compliance, quality, and impact, conducted by federal monitoring teams to ensure that we meet the high standards set forth for Head Start programs nationwide.


Annual Report
Our annual report highlights key achievements, challenges, and financial information, reflecting the collaborative efforts of our staff, families, and community partners. It offers a comprehensive look at how we're making a positive difference in the lives of children and families, all while adhering to our core values and mission.


We invite you to explore these documents and join us in celebrating the milestones achieved, as well as the continuous journey towards enhancing the future of Fremont County's children and families.

Documents / Downloads
Additional Resources
Head Start Application

Use this online application to apply for the Head Start program. Fremont County Head Start is a free, federally funded, comprehensive preschool program, serving primarily low-income children and families.

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Colorado Shines

Colorado Shines is a program that rates and improves the quality of licensed early learning programs in Colorado. It's part of the Colorado Department of Early Childhood's (CDE) Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS).

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Parent Possible

Parent Possible oversees and promotes evidence-based home visiting and parent engagement programs, that ensure Colorado parents have the tools, resources, information, and confidence they need to reach their potential as their child’s most important teacher, trainer, and mentor.

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Pyramid

The National Center for Pyramid Model Innovations (NCPMI) works to improve state and local capacity to implement, scale-up, and sustain effective practices and policies to equitably support the social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes of young children with, and at risk for, developmental delays or disabilities.

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Head Start

Office Hours

Monday
8:00 am to 4:30 pm
Tuesday
8:00 am to 4:30 pm
Wednesday
8:00 am to 4:30 pm
Thursday
8:00 am to 4:30 pm
Friday
8:00 am to 4:30 pm
Saturday
Closed Today
Sunday
Closed Today

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