MSU Extension Head Start
Interested in working with Head Start? Apply now!
The MSU Extension Service Head Start program, offered in Harrison County, is designed to help children and their parents make an easier transition from daycare and preschool to kindergarten. The program combines local partnerships with research-based education methods to serve children at this most critical stage of life.
Our Head Start centers proudly serve the communities of Gilbert Mason, East Biloxi, and Gaston Point, with Linda Lyons being our Early Head Start center. Our commitment to providing quality early-childhood education extends through our partnerships with local school districts, including Gulfport School District and Biloxi Public School District. In collaboration with Moore Community House and Shine Early Learning, we are able to offer comprehensive support and services. Moore Community House houses our Early Head Start program, including the Linda Lyons Center, while Shine Early Learning plays a vital role in providing valuable program support.
While serving the children of Harrison County, MSU Extension will be working to build a successful model that can be shared and replicated statewide.
Hours of operation: 7:45 a.m. to 2 p.m.
If you are interested in enrolling your child in Head Start, please call us at 228-365-9621.
MSU-Extension Head Start Program Administrative Office
521 34th Street
Gulfport, MS 39507
Phone: 228-241-2181
Email: msuheadstart@ext.msstate.edu
East Biloxi Head Start
590 Division Street
Biloxi, MS 39530
Phone: 228-967-7290
Gaston Point Head Start
1526 Mills Avenue
Gulfport, MS 39501
Phone: 228-731-3746
Gilbert Mason Head Start
4221 Popp’s Ferry Road
D’Iberville, MS 39540
Phone: 228-967-7257
Resources
MDHS receives $24 million for rent/mortgage assistance and LIHEAP.
Community Needs Assessment 2022-2023
Community Needs Assessment 2021-2022
News
GULFPORT, Miss. -- When Martin King’s sister encouraged him to enroll his children in Head Start, he took her advice. And he said he’s glad he did. King’s children, ages 3 and 5, began class in September at Gaston Point Head Start. It is one of several locations in Harrison County where the Mississippi State University Extension Service manages and delivers the early learning program.
D’IBERVILLE, Miss. -- Students at Gilbert Mason Head Start eagerly anticipated Work Together Wednesday, when the 4- and 5-year-old classmates planted herbs in the school’s raised beds. Wednesday’s activities were part of the school’s celebration of the Week of the Young Child held nationwide April 1-7. The annual observance is organized by the National Association for the Education of the Young Child. Each day, teachers used themes related to food, music and art to encourage movement and healthy lifestyles for students and parents.
The Mississippi State University Extension Service Head Start program is hiring for various positions in Harrison County. Head Start needs qualified candidates to fill positions including lead teachers, assistant teachers, a project coordinator, an educational leader, a floater, an administrative assistant, an office associate, an assistant cook and a custodian.
Mississippi State University will hold a Nov. 16 job fair to look for qualified people who love working with children and want to make a difference for them and their families. Positions are available for Head Start and Early Head Start teachers, assistant teachers, floaters, an education leader, an administrative assistant and an office associate.
Harrison County parents who hope to give their pre-kindergarten children a boost in school are encouraged to enroll them now for the upcoming school year with the Mississippi State University Extension Service Head Start Program.
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