RESERVE — Applications are being accepted for the 2016–17 Head Start and pre-kindergarten programs in St. John the Baptist Parish.

Many families have already qualified and been accepted for these programs.

St. John has slots available for pre-kindergarten students that are not determined by income eligibility and are open to all.

These programs are offered at East St. John Elementary, West St. John Elementary, the St. John Child Development Center and Lake Pontchartrain Elementary. Applications may be picked up at those sites and are also available at stjohn.k12.la.us.

Children eligible for these programs must be 4 by Sept. 30.

Children must be 3 or 4 years old by Sept. 30 to apply for Head Start. Children who are 4 will be given first consideration because they will be eligible for kindergarten the next year. Applications can be picked up at the St. John Child Development Center, the St. John the Baptist Parish School Board office or West St. John Elementary School.

Completed applications, with all required documentation, should be returned as soon as possible to the St. John Child Development Center. Staff will be available to assist with applications at the center.

Eligibility for Head Start is determined according to federal income guidelines issued by the Administration for Children, Youth and Families, as is eligibility for children who have documented special needs or disabilities.

Current family income information and a copy of the child’s birth certificate, Social Security card and immunization record must accompany the application.

Other items needed, if applicable, are proof of income, Social Security benefits award letter or check, U.S. entry papers, food stamp printout sheet, documentation of a disability and child’s health insurance card/Medicaid card/LaChip card. If a parent is in school, verification from the school he or she is attending is also required.

For information, call the St. John Child Development Center at 985-535-3917.