BILOXI, Miss. -- Harrison County parents who hope to give their pre-kindergarten children a boost in school are encouraged to enroll them now for the upcoming school year with the Mississippi State University Extension Service Head Start Program.

Registration opened March 17 for children to attend Head Start at Gaston Point, Gilbert Mason and East Biloxi, or at one classroom in each of five different schools across Harrison County. Basic requirements for application include a 121 immunization record, proof of family income, a birth certificate and proof of Harrison County residency.

The goal of the MSU Extension Service Head Start program is to ease the transition to school for families with young children. The program leverages community partnerships and research-based methods to establish a strong program that serves children at their youngest and most vulnerable stage in life.

Angelica Espinal, assistant director of the MSU Extension Family Service, urged interested families to immediately call 228-967-7257 or email msuheadstart@ext.msstate.edu for more information or to schedule an appointment.

“We encourage all interested parents to begin the enrollment process immediately, as spaces in these classes are limited,” Espinal said. “Students who participate in our Head Start program are equipped to move into kindergarten.”

Jamila Taylor, director of the MSU Extension Head Start Program, said the program serves children at their youngest and most vulnerable stage in life, preparing them for success in academics.

“Our goal is to create a seamless experience so children can easily transition from  early childcare to kindergarten,” Taylor said. “Our Head Start brings high-quality, early-childhood educational experiences in a fun atmosphere, laying a strong foundation for school success.”

The MSU Extension Head Start Program in Harrison County has stayed vigilant in finding ways to instill learning in their students while staying healthy during the pandemic. Careful mask-wearing, frequent hand-washing and social distancing have been part of the school day since the doors opened. Staff were given extensive training on health and safety protocols, and administrators are careful to ensure that these measures are followed consistently.

Learn more about the MSU Head Start program at http://extension.msstate.edu/family/children-and-parenting/msu-extension-head-start.