Frequently Asked Questions

Early Childhood Education offers 3 programs: 

1. Early Head Start (EHS)
2. Head Start (FDHS)
3. State Preschool (CSPP)

The main difference is the funding source. Head Start is funded by the Federal Government and State Preschool is funded by the State of California. The income requirements vary by program. Also, the hours and days of operation vary for both programs. The head start program is full day and the state preschool program is part day. Both programs use the same World of Wonders curriculum.

No. ECE programs are optional, not mandatory. Unlike K-12, these programs are not required for students.

No, these programs are education-based. There is an implemented curriculum for the students.

Monday - Friday

8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Monday - Thursday

8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (Full Day)

Friday 

No Classes for FDHS*

*May vary throughout the year*

Monday - Friday

8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (A.M. Part Day)

11:45 a.m. - 2:45 p.m. (P.M. Part Day)

Yes, you can apply for both programs. However, if you are doing so, you must submit 2 separate applications - one for each program.

No. Applications are only available in the Early Childhood Education office (located in the Palm Springs Unified School District main building) and must be picked up in-person. The application may be taken home and brought back on another business day, along with the required documents.

Once the application is deemed COMPLETE, with all paperwork filled out and necessary documents submitted, it must be processed and income must be calculated. After approval, the family is contacted and offered a spot in one of ECE's classrooms and an appointment is set so that they may complete enrollment paperwork, including a physical. Once the child has met the health requirements, they can begin attending.

Please allow a minimum of 3-4 weeks to receive a call back from the ECE office. The process includes a parent/guardian filling out the application, submitting all required documents, input of family and child information into the system, and income review. Processing time may increase during the beginning of the school year.

No, the program provides all the necessary supplies and meals. However, please bring an extra set of clothes for your child.