The FECEP/Head Start/Early Head Start program provides a quality preschool experience with comprehensive services at no cost to qualifying families who reside in Fairfax County. Your family may qualify for FECEP/Head Start if you:

• have a child who will be age 3, 4 or 5 (not eligible for Kindergarten) by October 1st,
• receive free or reduced-price school meals, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Social Security Income, and/or homeless per definition of the McKinney Vento Act and
• receive resources such as from a shelter and/or the FCPS homeless liaison office.

Early Head Start is for children 0-3 years of age and pregnant women who live in the Reston, Herndon and Springfield areas.

Though families may qualify, spaces are limited and selection is based on need, not “first come, first serve”, with priority given to ages 4 and 5 (not eligible for Kindergarten). The application process begins January 1st for the following school year starting in September. However it is important for all families to apply as soon as possible.

Note: The application eligibility, selection and enrollment process is managed centrally at the Office of Early Childhood Curriculum and Grant Management located in Falls Church; not at schools. If you a have question about the application process or status please call the main English Line: 703-208-7900 or Spanish Line: 703-208-7901.

Application and Enrollment Process

Applying