Welcome to CDI Head Start Serving

Santa Cruz County, California

CDI Head Start is here to maintain continuous, high‑quality Head Start services and to support families with reliable early learning and family resources. We’re committed to making sure children keep learning and thriving while ensuring your community’s services remain steady and strong.

Teacher and young children drawing together at a classroom table.

Program Options

Head Start Center-Based Program (Ages 3-5)

Preschoolers learn and grow in safe, nurturing classrooms. Teachers support children in skills that help prepare them for kindergarten.

Early Head Start Center-Based Program (Ages 0-3)

Early Head Start Home-Based Program (Ages 0-3)

Why Head Start?

Families choose Head Start because it’s more than a program, it’s a partner in your child’s growth.

Caring, qualified teachers

Safe and welcoming classrooms

Free healthy meals

Health and development check-ups

Support for family goals

Strong community connections

Building bright futures with Head Start program at a classroom setting focused on early childhood education for young learners
Joyful, diverse children bonding through creative play, reflecting the supportive environment of our Head Start program

About CDI Head Start

CDI Head Start is here to keep Head Start services operating and grow stronger programs in your community that thrive for years to come.

Community Development Institute (CDI) Head Start Logo

Mission
The mission of CDI Head Start is to serve children and families of low-income by fostering comprehensive, quality early childhood education services in community.

Interim Head Start Services

Some communities have Head Start or Early Head Start services operated by an interim provider. The Office of Head Start oversees these programs.  

Learn more about Interim Head Start Services 

Preschool students engaging in daily circle time to build social skills and community in a well-equipped Head Start classroom

Locations

Name   Phone  Address 
Baskin Head Start/Early Head Start  (831) 477-5275  6500 Soquel Dr., Aptos, CA 95003 (Map) 
ELO Admin Office/Early Head Start  (831) 285-0790  408 E. Lake Ave., Watsonville, CA 95076 (Map) 
La Casita Early Head Start  (831) 285-0868  412 E Lake Ave., Watsonville, CA 95076 (Map) 
Martinelli Head Start  (831) 285-0871  441 Rogers Ave., Watsonville, CA 95076 (Map) 
Natural Bridges Head Start/Early Head Start  (831) 285-0790  255 Swift Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060(Map) 
PVUSD  (831) 786-8270  294 Green Valley Road, Watsonville, CA 95076 (Map) 
SCC Early Head Start  (831) 285-0876  360 Arthur Rd., Watsonville, CA 95076(Map) 
The Farm Head Start  (831) 285-0877  3060 Cunnison Ln., Soquel, CA 95073 (Map) 
Via Del Mar Head Start  (831) 285-0878  120 W Beach Street., Watsonville, CA 95076(Map) 

We are currently accepting applications for all locations. Please note, center opening dates vary by location.

Looking for Head Start services outside of our area? Check the Head Start Center Locator

More Information

Eligibility Information

Not sure if you qualify? We encourage you to apply. Our team is here to help you find out if you are eligible.

Apply Now

Submit your application for Head Start or Early Head Start Services

Need Assistance?

We’re here to help. We can connect you with helpful programs and services in the community.

Program Calendar

View the 2025-2026 Program Calendar

Get Involved

Strong programs grow with strong partners. Everyone has something to give.

Join Our Team!

Explore meaningful job opportunities in our Head Start program.