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Serving Jackson, Harrison, and George Counties
Illustration of four diverse children reading books together on a grassy hill
Early Childhood Education

Head Start

Head Start and Early Head Start help young children and families build a solid foundation for the future. We provide early education, healthy meals, and health screenings for children from birth through age five. Parents receive real support and guidance, not just for the classroom, but for life at home and beyond. All services are free to eligible families.

Find a Head Start center near you →
What We Provide

Building Strong Foundations for Every Child

Our Head Start program gives children and families everything they need to succeed, all at no cost to eligible families in Jackson County.

Early Education

Research-based curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten through hands-on learning, social development, and school readiness activities in small classroom settings.

Nutritious Meals

Breakfast, lunch, and snacks provided daily through the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program. Every meal meets one-third of a child's daily nutritional needs.

Health Screenings

Vision, hearing, dental, and developmental screenings for every child. We connect families to medical and dental providers and help coordinate follow-up care.

Family Support

Parent workshops, home visits, and goal-setting with family advocates. We help parents with job training, education, housing, and connecting to community resources.

9 Locations

Head Start Centers Across Jackson County

Every center provides the same quality early childhood education, meals, and family support services. Find the location closest to you.

First Step Childcare Center

5343 Jefferson Avenue
Moss Point, MS 39563

Eastlawn Elementary Head Start

2611 Ingalls Ave
Pascagoula, MS 39567

Gautier Head Start Center

1017 Highway 90
Gautier, MS 39553

Jackson Elementary Head Start

3203 Lanier Ave
Pascagoula, MS 39581

Jefferson Head Start Center

5343 Jefferson Avenue
Moss Point, MS 39563

Kreole Elementary Head Start

6312 Martin Luther King Blvd
Moss Point, MS 39563

Martin Bluff Elementary Head Start

1306 Roys Rd
Gautier, MS 39553

Pascagoula Head Start

3301 Spruce Street
Pascagoula, MS 39581

Taconi Head Start

711 Magnolia Street
Ocean Springs, MS 39564

All Head Start and Early Head Start enrollment is handled online through ChildPlus. You can apply for any center from one application.

Enroll your child online

Head Start Creates Lasting Change

Real stories from families and leaders in our community who have been impacted by Head Start.

From Head Start to Early Childhood

See how our early childhood programs lay the foundation for lifelong learning and growth.

How Head Start Shaped a CEO

Clay went from Head Start student to business leader. His story shows the lasting power of early investment.

Lee Ann Kendrick's Story

From Head Start parent to Director of Adult Services. Lee Ann's journey with CASOMS spans decades.

More Programs

Childcare and Nutrition for Every Child

Beyond Head Start, CASOMS offers affordable childcare and nutrition programs that keep children healthy, fed, and ready to learn.

First Step Childcare Program

Affordable, quality childcare for children ages 2 to 5 at our Moss Point center. First Step provides a safe, nurturing environment with structured learning activities and nutritious meals throughout the day.

  • Hours: Monday through Friday, 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Ages: 2 to 5 years old
  • Cost: $85/week (potty trained), $95/week (non-potty trained)
  • Location: 5343 Jefferson Avenue, Moss Point, MS 39563

Nutrition Programs

Every child in our care receives nutritious meals and snacks through the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). We also offer the Sun Meals Summer Lunch Program for Boys and Girls Club members.

  • CACFP: Breakfast, lunch, and snacks daily for all children in Head Start and First Step
  • Nutrition standard: Every meal
Getting Started

How to Enroll Your Child

Enrollment is simple, free, and handled entirely online. You can apply for Head Start, Early Head Start, or First Step Childcare from one application.

Apply Online

Complete the online application through ChildPlus. It takes about 15 minutes and covers all CASOMS early childhood programs in one form.

We Review and Contact You

Our enrollment team reviews your application, confirms eligibility, and reaches out to schedule an orientation at the center closest to you.

Your Child Starts Learning

Once enrolled, your child begins attending their Head Start center with meals, health screenings, and family support services all included from day one.

Ready to Give Your Child a Strong Start?

One application covers Head Start, Early Head Start, First Step Childcare, and afterschool programs. Apply online through ChildPlus today.

Apply Now Through ChildPlus
Questions? Contact Us

Tayonka Thomas

Director of Children and Youth Services

Enrollment Office

First Step Childcare Direct Line

Give Your Child a Strong Start

Enrollment is free and open year round. Apply online in about 15 minutes, or call us and we will walk you through the process.

(228) 769-3292