Community Action Pioneer Valley to Open New Head Start Classroom in Easthampton

EASTHAMPTON — Community Action Pioneer Valley Head Start and Early Learning Programs is returning to the Easthampton community for the first time since 2021 through a new classroom at Mountain View School, expanding local access to high-quality early childhood education and comprehensive family support services.

“The classroom will allow children and families to receive services close to home while also strengthening the connection between early learning, family advocacy, and the public-school community,” said Marianne Bouthilette, interim director of Head Start and Early Learning Programs at Community Action Pioneer Valley. She noted that the center’s new location within the Mountain View School provides additional benefits for both children and staff.

“Having a Head Start classroom located within Mountain View School creates opportunities for stronger collaboration with school staff, smoother transitions for children as they move into kindergarten, and greater access to shared resources and community connections. This partnership with Easthampton Public Schools reflects a shared commitment to supporting children and families from the very beginning of their educational journey.”

The classroom is scheduled to open Sept. 8. It has room for 15 students between the ages of 2 years and 9 months and 5 years.

“All families — including families outside of Easthampton — are welcome to apply,” said Kara Peters, enrollment manager for Head Start and Early Learning Programs. “We prioritize families based on their circumstances and needs.”

Families that receive cash assistance, SNAP benefits, or Supplemental Security Income, as well as children in foster care and families who are experiencing homelessness, are prioritized for the classroom’s spots. “However, it’s important to know that lots of families who may not receive these specific benefits are also eligible for enrollment,” Peters said. “If you are interested, please call us. We can determine your eligibility for our programs and for other day care or early education programs, too.”

Community Action’s Head Start and Early Learning Programs around the Valley provides more than high-quality classroom education; they offer supports for physical health, mental health, nutrition, and disabilities, while partnering with families as they pursue their own goals for education, employment, and well-being.

“One of the things that is really special about this program is that families in our Head Start program aren’t just accessing high-quality early education and care and family supports — they’re connected with the full breadth of what Community Action has to offer: fuel assistance, food programs, job training, and so much more,” said Lev BenEzra, executive director of Community Action Pioneer Valley. “Our goal with every family is to support the success of the child, family, and the whole community. Enrollment in our Head Start and Early Learning Programs is the front door.”

For more information about applying for one of these classroom spots, visit www.communityaction.us or call (413) 387-1250.