Missouri Revised Statutes Title XL. Additional Executive Departments § 660.650. Definitions

(1)“Early head start program”, any head start program as defined in subdivision (4) of this subsection which provides services to children age three and under, and their families;

(2)“Head start delegate agency”, any organization that operates a head start program pursuant to a contract with a head start grantee;

(3)“Head start grantee”, any private not-for-profit or public organization that operates a head start program pursuant to federal law and regulations. A head start grantee shall be responsible for the administration of a local head start program and, in partnership with the head start policy council, provide policy direction for the program; and

(4)“Head start program”, a community program that is operated in compliance with federal performance standards pursuant to 42 U.S.C. Section 9801, and 45 CFR Section 1301, et seq., and that provides comprehensive services to children and their families. The program shall focus on preschool children from low-income families who have not reached the age of compulsory school attendance. A head start program shall encompass early child development and health services, family and community partnerships, and program design and management. Head start services include, but are not limited to, health, education, parent involvement, nutrition, social services, special services for children with disabilities and other services to help children and their families attain their full potential.