Despite students just getting out for the summer, a local early childhood education center is asking parents to start thinking about next year. 

Krissy Conklen with Community Action's Head Start program explains that registration is already open. The program aims to create well-rounded students who are five years old and younger, and help give them a head start as they advance to kindergarten. 

The Early Head Start program is geared towards at-home education, although both programs utilize the widely used "Creative Curriculum" model. Conklen adds that they also work to support the families of their students. 

To register, Conklen says you can go online, visit their Facebook page, or visit them in person for a paper option. Parents will need to provide proof of income and the child's birth certificate.

Anyone can apply for Head Start, but there are income guidelines that help Community Action prioritize those in need. Conklen explains that children in foster care or those of parents who are eligible for SNAP benefits automatically qualify. 

Learn more about the Head Start Program and register now by visiting capcil.info/head-start or visiting the office at 45 Cedar Drive in Clinton.