School Readiness
The Office of Head Start states that Head Start is a school readiness program. Building upon this premise, ICS Head Start emphasizes and supports children's academic development, especially to significantly increase language development and to help preschoolers acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that predict later success in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies as they enter kindergarten. For further information, please call 662-252-1582 ext. 123.
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Our Centers
ICS is a private, nonprofit corporation headquartered in Holly Springs, Mississippi. We provide Head Start services to preschool children with the greatest need in Benton, Clay, Desoto, Grenada, Lafayette, Lowndes, Marshall, Noxubee, Oktibbeha, Panola, Quitman, Tallahatchie, Tate, and Tunica counties.
Our Centers
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Our Centers
The Institute of Community Services, Inc. operates 21 Head Start Centers in 14 counties across Northern Mississippi.
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Visit Human Resources to find current job opportunities, read full job descriptions, and to learn about the benefits of working for the Institute of Community Services, Inc.
Enrollment
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Enrollment
To apply for Early Head Start / Head Start services, families may start the process online or request an application from your local head start center.
When emailing regarding an inquiry for Head Start or Early Head Start, please provide the following information so that we can promptly and correctly reply:
Name of Center:
Program Type: Head Start or Early Head Start
Parent's Name:
Parent's Contact Number:
Child’s Name:
Child’s Date of Birth:
Apply Online
Welcome to ICS Head Start & Early Head Start Online Pre-Application!
Thank you for your interest in ICS Head Start and Early Head Start! We are excited to help your family begin the enrollment process and look forward to serving your child.
Before You Begin
The online Pre-Application lets us know that you are interested in enrolling your child in our program. Submitting a Pre-Application does not complete your child's enrollment.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Head Start : Your child must be 4 years old or 3 years old by September 1st of the school program year for which you are applying.
- Early Head Start: Your child must be at least 8 weeks old and have received their first set of immunizations or 3 years old by September 2nd of the school program year for which you are applying. .
Tips for Completing Your Pre-Application
- Select the correct program (Head Start or Early Head Start).
- Choose Head Start : If your child is 4 years old or will be 3 years old by September 1st of the school program year for which you are applying.
- Choose Early Head Start: If your child is at least 8 weeks old and has received their first set of immunizations or 3 years old by September 2nd of the school program year for which you are applying.
- If you do not see the program you are looking for, check the list for additional program options.
- Enter all names using CAPITAL LETTERS.
- Select your center location.
- Double-check that your phone number, email address, and home address are correct so we can contact you.
- If you have already submitted an online Pre-Application, you will not be able to submit another one. If you need to make changes or need assistance, please contact your local ICS Head Start Center.
Once we receive your Pre-Application, a Family Services staff member will review it and contact you to complete the process. If you did not upload the required documents with your Pre-Application, you will be asked to provide documentation to determine your child's eligibility. Required documents may include:
- Proof of income or documentation showing SSI, TANF, or SNAP benefits
- Your child's Certified Birth Certificate or US Citizenship Verification
- Your child's Immunization Record (Mississippi Form 121 or Form 122)
- Health insurance information
- Additional documentation, if needed for your child's program
Thank you for choosing ICS Head Start & Early Head Start. We appreciate the opportunity to serve your family and look forward to partnering with you to support your child's learning, growth, and success!
Thanks,
Angela Lowery MSW/LSW/CMHT
Click the button below to access and complete the Online Family Intake Application.
Institute of Community Services, Inc. is an equal opportunity provider. No person shall be discriminated against because of race, religion, color, sex, age, disability or national origin.
2026 - 2027 Parent Handbook
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