The Early Childhood Development programs are under the umbrella of the Pueblo of Acoma Department of Education. The division is comprised of the following two programs:
- Head Start (Ages 3 – 5 years)
- Child Care (Ages 6 weeks – 3 years)
Coordination within these programs, ensures that comprehensive early childhood services are available to children between the ages of 6 weeks through 5 years old.
Mission
To promote educational excellence by providing quality programs and services that enhance lifelong skill while maintaining the Acoma culture and language.
Head Start
Education
Individualized learning experiences that promote school readiness and foster every child’s social, emotional, intellectual, and physical growth.
Family Engagement
Specialized family partnerships, goal setting, referrals, and ongoing support. Providing opportunities to volunteer, to learn and practice new skills, and to socialize.
Health
Wellness promotion of medical and dental examinations, immunizations, comprehensive health screenings, and necessary follow-up services for each child. Promotion of mental health and wellness.
Nutrition
Healthy snacks and lunches that meet USDA standards and nutrition education for children and parents. A nutritionist is available to the staff, and workshops presented to parents and staff members to identify and provide for the nutritional needs of the children.
Support for Children with Disabilities
Early identification and intervention to support children with disabilities and their inclusion in all program activities.
Transportation
Transportation services are available to all Head Start children.
Who is Eligible for Head Start?
Preschool children, including those with disabilities are eligible for enrollment. Head Start accepts applications year-round and fills vacancies from its waiting list. While children from low-income families have enrollment priority, children from higher income families may be enrolled as well.
Child Care
The program offers families access to affordable, high-quality child care where infants and toddlers have the opportunity to develop to their fullest potential in a safe, healthy and nurturing environment.
The program is dedicated to protecting children, strengthening families and providing affordable child care while offering parental choice. Child care is available for parents who are working, taking classes (high school and adult education), work related training and job search.
The program is funded by the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF). The CCDF is a Federal program devoted to helping low-income families who work or participate in educational programs that lead to employment opportunities.
Eligibility is based on income, household size and specific needs.
Keres Language
Haak’u Learning Center is implementing the Keres language in a variety of learning strategies for infant, toddlers and head start children. The curriculum is based on Acoma culture with input from former Head Start teachers. The curriculum is taught by staff members who are fluent in speaking the Acoma language.
Acoma Department of Education 