Now enrolling for the 2026-2027 school year! Apply today.

What We Do

Central Kentucky Head Start provides comprehensive early childhood education and family support services for children ages birth to five across Hardin, LaRue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, and Washington counties.


475 Families Served
520 Children Enrolled
9 Center Locations
494 Funded Slots

Established within Central Kentucky Community Action Council (CKCAC), Central Kentucky Head Start has served families across six counties since its founding. Our programs provide children from low-income families with the comprehensive support they need — addressing educational, social, emotional, health, and nutritional development — so every child can thrive.

Head Start is a federally funded early childhood education program launched in 1965 to help communities meet the needs of young children and their families.

Our Mission

Central Kentucky Head Start will deliver quality education for children and families to be school ready while engaging partnerships and community resources.

Our Vision

To Teach, To Lead, and To Serve. We believe that quality early education lays the foundation for lifelong success, and that strong families build strong communities.

Our Values

  • Quality — Every classroom meets or exceeds federal Head Start Program Performance Standards, ensuring your child receives the best possible start.
  • Diversity — We celebrate the cultures, languages, and abilities of every child and family we serve.
  • Dedication — Our staff are committed to building lasting relationships with the families in our community, walking alongside you from enrollment through kindergarten readiness.

Where We Serve

CKYHS Service Area — 9 Centers across 6 Counties in Central Kentucky Our Service Area 9 centers across 6 counties in Central Kentucky Wash. LaRue Nelson Hardin Marion Meade Bardstown Elizabethtown Hodgenville Lebanon (2) Ekron New Haven Radcliff Springfield Legend Service County Head Start Center

Head Start

For children ages 3–5, providing school readiness through quality education, health screenings, nutrition, and family support.

Early Head Start

For pregnant women and children birth to age 3, offering child development services, parenting education, and comprehensive support.

Give Your Child the Best Start

All our services are free for eligible families.