Head Start - Washoe Tribe of Nevada & California

Head Start and Early Head Start are federally funded programs that promote the school readiness of young children from low-income families. Early Head Start typically serves pregnant women and children from birth to age three. Head Start serves children aged three to five years old. Both programs emphasize a holistic approach, considering not only the educational needs of children but also their health, nutrition, and family support to ensure a well-rounded foundation for learning and growth.

The Washoe Tribe Head Start of NV & CA provides services to 90 children within Carson City and Douglas County, with three classrooms on the Stewart reservation and two in Dresslerville. The Tribe introduced the Pyramid Model (practices for promoting young children’s healthy social and emotional development) in 2010, initially in two classrooms, and now it's fully implemented across all five. The program's motto, "Be Safe and Be Respectful," guides not only classroom conduct but also parent involvement, volunteer policies, and staff interactions. Recognition is given to those demonstrating these values.