Did You Know….

Through The Improvement Association's Head Start programs, children are able to receive the necessary education and support to succeed in school and life beyond. These programs also help parents become involved in their kids' education. The Head Start program is a federal program that serves children from 3 to 4 years old. It also provides early education and care to pregnant women and infants. It operates in various states, as well as Puerto Rico. Through 1,600 agencies, the program's services are tailored to the needs of local families. The Improvement Association's Head Start program provides nutrition, education, and health programs that help parents prepare their children for school. It serves children ages, 3 up to the age of kindergarten. The Improvement Association's Head Start classrooms provide the opportunity for intellectual, emotional, and social growth for 190 students and their families. In addition, it offers health screenings and dental care. Through this program, the entire family can benefit from the knowledge and skills that it provides. Our team is composed of over 50 education professionals, including teachers, teacher assistants, family service coordinators, educators, and a health coordinator. The Improvement Association Head Start's classrooms typically operate from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm.

Currently, we serve approximately 262 children across five counties in Southern Virginia:
Sussex, Surry, Greensville, Brunswick, and Dinwiddie.

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📚 What Head Start Offers

Preschool education focused on school readiness
Nutritious meals and health screenings
Support for families, including parent engagement opportunities
Qualified Nurturing Teachers
Services For Children With Disabilities
A safe, welcoming, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment

Please Provide During the Application Process

Completed Application
Proof of Age:Birth Certificate, Birth Information Provided by the Courts/DSS, or Birth Letter from Hospital.
Verification of Household Income:2 Most Current Pay Stubs, W-2, 1040, or Child Support. If you receive SNAP, TANF, or SSI, please provide an Award Letter.

These programs are part of our commitment to early childhood success, helping children gain the skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.

📍 Head Start Locations

Emporia, VA

1750 East Atlantic Street
1101 Sussex Drive (Greensville Head Start)

Lawrenceville, VA

100 College View Drive
115 College Drive (Improvement Association Head Start)

Waverly, VA

120 Coppahaunk Avenue (Improvement Association)

Dinwiddie, VA

10305 Boydton Plank Road (Improvement Association)

👉 Contact us or visit your local Head Start center to learn more or begin the application process.

RonKeisha Kelly, M.Ed

Head Start Director

Ms. Kelly has completed her M.Ed. in Adult Education and Administration from Jones International University. After the completion of her Master’s program, she has continued to work in the Human Services and Education fields. Her goal is to continue to analyze and implement strategies to continue to be an educator that changes the lives of children and families to promote self-sufficiency and resilience.