Bank Street Head Start

How to Apply

Applications are accepted year round for all children who are 2.9 to 4.11 years old, regardless of race, color, gender, creed, national origin, or disability. Applicants must meet the Federal Poverty Guidelines below.

2024 Poverty Guidelines for the 48 Contiguous States and the District of Columbia:

Persons in Family/Household Poverty Guideline
For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $5,380 for each additional person.
1 $15,060
2 $20,440
3 $25,820
4 $31,200
5 $36,580
6 $41,960
7 $47,340
8 $52,720

Fill Out Application (English/Spanish) (pdf) Fill Out Application (English/Chinese) (pdf)

If you have any questions, please contact Jeannette Garcia at jgarcia@bankstreet.edu or 212- 875-4737.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • How much does the program cost?

    Head Start is a free program to eligible families. Eligibility is based upon income.

  • What are the eligibility requirements?

    Head Start services are available to children ages 2.9 to 5 and their families. Eligibility is determined by local program staff. Your family may be eligible for Head Start services if your family’s income is determined to be at or below the federal poverty level. Programs may enroll some children from families whose incomes are higher than the federal poverty level if they meet other eligibility requirements. Families with circumstances such as homelessness, children in foster care, or receiving TANF or SSI may also qualify for services.

    The poverty guidelines are adjusted for families of different sizes. It is issued each year in the Federal Register by the Department of Health and Human Services

  • Is the program open all year?

    The program operates from the first week of September through the end of July.

  • What are the hours?

    3’s Program

    • Monday – Thursday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
    • Friday: 8:30 AM – 2:45 PM

    PK Program

    • Monday – Thursday from 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
    • Friday: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM
  • Is early drop-off available?

    Bank Street Head Start does not offer early drop-off at this time.

  • Can children attend part-time?

    No. All children must be enrolled full-time, five days per week.

  • What is the student-to-teacher ratio?

    Seven children to one teacher.

  • Do children need to be toilet-trained?

    We work with parents to support this developmental milestone.

A Look At Our Facilities

Watch this video for an inside look at our facilities at Bank Street Head Start. Our spaces are primed for learning and growth and are designed to offer meaningful, play-based experiences for young children that encourage them to connect with their physical and social environment.