Every child deserves a strong start. Head Start and School Age give children a safe place to learn, grow, build friendships, and discover what they can do.”
– Zoë Funk, Associate Director of Education
Our School Age Program is having a great summer! Summer camp is off to a strong start, with fun trips like a recent visit to the Oregon Zoo. We are also planning new family nights, projects, activities, and special events for the year ahead. As we prepare for the new school year, our team is working to reach full capacity, grow our staff, and create more after-school opportunities for children and families. We are also excited to join the CACFP Grant for the 2026-27 school year, which will help provide funding for meals served through the program.
Our Head Start Program is growing too! Markham Elementary is adding a new classroom, bringing the site to three classrooms serving 54 children. At Lincoln, enrollment has grown from 13 to 26 children, with three classrooms serving children from 6 weeks to 3 years old. Stephen Creek Crossing is also adding a new Early Head Start classroom for children ages 12 to 23 months. These changes mean more children and families can access high-quality early learning and care. We are also continuing to improve nutrition, early childhood development, and farm-to-table programs that help children grow and learn. As Ramona prepares to move to its new location, we are excited to begin this next chapter of Head Start.
Free child care gives families the support they need while helping children learn, grow, and feel safe. Even as federal support becomes more limited, we remain committed to providing healthy, safe, and welcoming learning environments for children and families across Portland.
