Head Start

Early Childhood Education

At the Early Childhood Education Department, we're passionate about building the foundation for a lifetime of learning and success. We understand that the early years of a child's life are the most formative and crucial, and we're here to make them count. Our dedicated team of educators, child development experts, and caregivers is committed to providing a nurturing, safe, and stimulating environment for your child. We believe in the potential of every young mind and the boundless opportunities a quality early education can offer. With a focus on fostering curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning, we're devoted to ensuring that every child in our care not only meets but exceeds their developmental milestones. Together, we'll create a bright and promising future for your child, one filled with curiosity, exploration, and endless possibilities.

Teacher teaching young students


About Head Start

The Champaign County Regional Planning Commission is the recipient of federal funding to promote kindergarten readiness to income-eligible families in Early Head Start, which serves infants, toddlers, and expectant parents; and Head Start, which serves three- to five-year-old children. We partner with parents to assist children in developing the knowledge and skills necessary for school success and lifelong well-being. Champaign County Head Start currently serves over 511 children and their families each year.


A Look at the RPC’s Early Childhood Education Center in Urbana




Information Hub

At the Head Start Early Childhood Education Department, we're dedicated to providing you with a comprehensive resource hub. Explore our range of materials and stay updated with our schedules and videos. Find the information you need to support your child's learning journey.


Maggie Potter Shows You How to Fill Out a Head Start Application





FAQS

Curious to learn more about our Early Childhood Education Division? Have questions about our programs or initiatives? You'll find answers to these and more on our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page. This page is your go-to resource for insights into our department's work. To explore our FAQs, simply click here or visit the 'FAQs' section in the sidebar.


CONTACT US

Have a question or need to get in touch with us? We're here to assist you. For the quickest and most efficient way to reach out, we recommend using our Citizen Request Center. It's designed to streamline the process of addressing your inquiries. Simply click the Citizen Request Center link and when filling out the form, be sure to select ' Early Childhood Education' from the 'Department' drop-down menu. Our team will promptly attend to your request and provide the assistance you need.


Quick Links

Spotlight

RPC DEDICATES NEW EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION CENTER IN CHAMPAIGN TO MEMORY OF FORMER CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER ELIZABETH MURPHY

For more than four decades, Elizabeth Murphy championed early childhood education in our community. Although she passed away in March, her memory will live on as the namesake of the new Elizabeth Murphy Early Childhood Education Center in Champaign. The building was officially dedicated in her name during a ceremony on Friday, August 11, featuring speeches from RPC CEO Dalitso Sulamoyo, Early Childhood Division Director Brandi Granse, and Elizabeth's daughters, Erin Murphy and Katherine Murphy.

Read More