Preschool

Kai Ming Head Start has been delivering a culturally relevant, family-centered and interest-based education for children ages 3 to 5 for more than four decades. With a research-based curriculum that promotes learning in all developmental areas, our program helps prepare children for kindergarten, as well as provide a springboard for life-long learning. An optimal teacher-child ratio ensures that children have their unique needs met in a safe, educational, and multicultural preschool experience. Our services are free or low cost for eligible families.

The Value of Head Start

Head Start and Early Head Start programs promote children's school readiness and family success.
Kai Ming’s Head Start program features comprehensive services that support early learning, health, and family well-being.

Programs and Research-based Curriculum

Kai Ming curriculum aligns with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) and California early care and education standards. The curriculum is drawn from current child development science, the interests and ideas of the children, family input, and the values of the community. The curriculum fosters development in areas including physical, social, emotional, language and literacy development, as well as problem-solving and cognitive skills. We draw from three award-winning, child-centered curriculums:

Through education, play, and inquiry preschoolers learn:

Speaking and listening (language)
Early reading
Early writing
Math
Science
Social studies
Creative arts
Technology

Environment Rating Scale

Each year, Kai Ming uses Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ECERS) and Infant Toddler Environment Rating Scale (ITERS) to evaluate and identify areas of improvement in the classroom environment, including program quality aspects such as Personal Routine and Care, Interactions, and Program Structure.

Quality Teachers and Staff

Our teachers have the required degrees and credentials to work with young children. They have a knowledge of child development and the ability to adapt for the varying needs of each age and stage.
Low teacher-child ratios foster quality interactions between staff and students, and allow each child to receive individual attention.
We welcome diversity among our staff. The language that our students speak at home is reflected in our staffing.

Staff Professional Development

Kai Ming staff continue to grow and develop their professional knowledge and skills after starting their positions at Kai Ming, through regular training, coaching, and other professional development opportunities. There are required training mandated by the state and federal funding contracts. Each staff member has an annual professional development plan that aims to help them grow professionally and personally. Talent and career development advice is available through our Learning and Development Department.

Parent Committee

Parent Committees provide an opportunity for parents/guardians to become involved and participate in program decision-making, including decisions regarding their child’s education. Head Start parents and staff work together to determine the kinds of education and learning experiences provided at the center. During the Parent Committee meetings, parents initiate suggestions and ideas, plan and organize center activities, and make suggestions regarding the curriculum or other services at the center. Parents may also provide information about activities and events in the community, serving as a community link between the program and the community. Parent Committees also elect their Center Representatives to the Policy Council.

Family Support

The Head Start Parent, Family, and Community Engagement Framework (PFCE) is a guide to learning how family engagement promotes positive, enduring change for children, families, and communities.
Kai Ming uses a strength-based approach to build relationships with families and support goal setting for family success. The strength-based approach takes into account the individual but also the environment.
A Family Advocate in each center supports family needs including housing, health, educational, parenting, mental health, community resources, and more.

Community Involvement

Kai Ming partners with different community agencies to bring resources and referrals to support children and their families. Head Start is required to partner with the Local Education Agency on serving children with disabilities through Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Kai Ming also partners with Golden Gate Resource Center (GGRC), SFUSD, SFSU Nursing Program, RAMs for mental health consultation, Magic toothbrush, and many other agencies.

Inclusion and Mental Health

Kai Ming accommodates children with special needs, developmental delays, behavioral and mental health issues.
We promote children's developing capacity to express and regulate emotions, form trusting relationships, explore, and learn.
We partner with the United School District and community partners to adapt instruction and provide the supportive services that the student needs.
We support the mental health of all of our children, families, and staff.

Health, Nutrition and Safety

We offer nutritious meals and snacks for children at school, and health screenings to ensure that children are healthy and ready to learn.

Nutrition Program: California Child and Adult Food Program (CACFP)
- Multicultural menu
- Accommodating food allergies
Child health screenings and referral services
Education and resources for parents and family
Promote children’s health and safety in the centers and at home

The Home-School Connection

We partner with families and parents and empower their roles as the first teachers of their children. Parents are engaged in making decisions for their children's learning, classroom curriculum, and program operations. Policy Council and Parent Committees play an important part in being the advocates for their families, the program, and the community.

Our educational approach respects and incorporates the culture, language, and ethnic values of each child.

To schedule an in-person or virtual appointment: