What We Offer
Our Programs, Family Engagement & Community Events
- Early Head Start Program
- Head Start Program - Preparing Children for Pre-Kindergarten Success
- Child Development Program - Building Strong Foundations for Kindergarten
- Family Engagement & Community Events at Mary Ford
Early Head Start Program
Our Early Head Start Program provides high-quality, comprehensive early childhood education and family support services for infants, toddlers (birth to age 3), and pregnant women. Designed to promote healthy development and school readiness, this program focuses on the whole child—supporting physical, emotional, cognitive, and social growth in a safe, nurturing environment.
Our caring, trained staff work closely with families to create individualized learning plans that meet each child’s unique needs. We offer:
- Age-appropriate curriculum and developmental screenings
- Nutritious meals and snacks
- Health and dental support services
- Family engagement opportunities and home visits
- Resources and guidance for expecting and new parents
At the heart of our Early Head Start Program is a strong partnership with families—working together to lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success.
Head Start Program - Preparing Children for Pre-Kindergarten Success
Our Head Start Program is a comprehensive early childhood education initiative designed to prepare children ages 3 to 4 for a successful transition into pre-kindergarten and beyond. We focus on nurturing the whole child—supporting cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development in a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment.
Through a research-based curriculum and individualized learning plans, children build foundational skills in early literacy, math, language, and problem-solving—all essential for a smooth start in pre-K. Our experienced educators also emphasize social skills, self-regulation, and classroom routines to ensure children are confident and ready to thrive in their next educational setting.
- Key components of our Head Start Program include:
- A structured, age-appropriate curriculum aligned with school readiness goals
- Health, nutrition, and developmental screenings
- Nutritious meals and snacks provided daily
- Strong family engagement and support services
- A culturally responsive and inclusive environment
By working in close partnership with families, our Head Start Program lays the groundwork for lifelong learning, ensuring each child is equipped with the tools they need to succeed in pre-kindergarten and beyond.
Child Development Program - Building Strong Foundations for Kindergarten
Our Child Development Program is thoughtfully designed to support children ages 3 to 5 as they grow, learn, and prepare for a successful transition into kindergarten. Rooted in early childhood best practices, this program nurtures the whole child—fostering development across cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language domains.
Through a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum, children engage in hands-on learning experiences that build essential kindergarten readiness skills. These include early literacy and math concepts, problem-solving, communication, self-regulation, and the ability to work both independently and in group settings.
Key features of our Child Development Program include:
- A structured, nurturing classroom environment with small group instruction
- Individualized learning plans to meet each child’s developmental needs
- Emphasis on social skills, emotional resilience, and positive behavior
- Daily routines that mirror kindergarten expectations
- Ongoing assessment and parent-teacher collaboration
- Health, nutrition, and wellness support
By the time children complete our program, they are confident, curious learners who are socially and academically ready to take the next big step into kindergarten.
Our Kindergarten Program offers a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Designed for children ages 5 to 6, our full-day program prepares students for a smooth and successful transition to elementary school—both academically and socially.
We combine a structured, standards-aligned curriculum with hands-on learning, play, and exploration. Children build early literacy and math skills, and grow emotionally and socially in a nurturing environment.
Family Engagement & Community Events at Mary Ford
Celebrating Learning, Culture, and Connection—Together
At Mary Ford Early Learning and Family Center, we believe that strong family partnerships are the heart of student success. Our family engagement initiatives and school-sponsored community events are designed to bring families, educators, and the broader community together in celebration of learning, culture, and connection.
Throughout the year, we host a variety of fun and meaningful events that allow families to be active participants in their child's educational journey. From interactive academic nights to joyful celebrations of culture and creativity, these gatherings strengthen our sense of community and reinforce the importance of learning at home and at school.
Signature Events Include:
- STEM Night – Families explore hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math activities that spark curiosity and critical thinking.
- Math & Literacy Night – An engaging evening of games, stories, and take-home strategies to support early learning and school readiness.
- Family Sneaker Ball – A festive celebration where families dress to impress in their favorite sneakers, honoring community, culture, and creativity through music, dancing, and connection.
Each event is thoughtfully designed to be inclusive, engaging, and fun—creating memorable moments that bring learning to life beyond the classroom.
At Mary Ford, we don’t just teach children—we support families, celebrate culture, and grow together as a community.
