Head Start

Our Vision

“Children are healthy and ready for school with supportive and engaged families.”

Head Start is a comprehensive preschool program to prepare children and families for school success. Preschool children learn best through play. We teach science, math, literacy skills, art, self-help skills, and much more in our safe, fun classrooms. We meet Indiana Child Care Licensing regulations from the Family and Social Services Administration , and we have reached Level 3 in the Paths-to-QUALITY state rating system at three of our Centers.

Getting children ready for kindergarten is more than knowing the alphabet and counting to 10. At Head Start, our goal is to help every child to be physically, emotionally, and cognitively ready for school.

OVO provides all of its services without regard to race, age, color, religion, sex, disability, national origin, ancestry, familial status, or status as a veteran. Our Head Start services are available to families in Jefferson, Jennings and Scott Counties.

How do I apply?

To apply, you must complete the HS application 23-24. Please download and print out the document. Submit your completed application along with the following documentation:

Proof of family/household income
Child’s Birth Certificate
Child’s Immunization Record
Medical Insurance Card

Completed Head Start applications with attached documents can be turned in at our Administration Office or any of our four Head Start Centers. For more information about enrollment, call the local Head Start Center.

You may also click on the following link: online application This will begin the application. A Family Support Specialist will contact you ASAP to gather additional information and complete the application.

Our Locations

Administration Office

421 Walnut Street, Madison

Phone: (812) 265-4877

Fax: (812) 273-5950

Jefferson County – Madison Center

575 OVO Drive, Madison

Phone: (812) 265-8240

Jefferson County – Southwestern Elementary School

273 S. Main Cross, Hanover

Phone: (812) 866-1176

Jennings County Center

3040 N. Hwy 3, North Vernon

Phone: (812) 346-8965

Scott County Center

1172 Community Way, Scottsburg

Phone: (812) 752-7409

Income Guidelines

Head Start’s income guidelines are listed below, based on household size. There are a few instances when these guidelines will be disregarded, such as for foster children, children from homeless families, and children from families that receive public assistance (such as SNAP, TANF, or SSI).

2023 Income Guidelines
Persons in family/household	Poverty guideline
1	$14,580
2	$19,720
3	$24,860
4	$30,000
5	$35,140
6	$40,280
7	$45,420
8	$50,560
For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $5,140 for each additional person.