YMCA Expands Early Childhood Education with Launch of Early Head Start Program

New Classrooms Opening in Emmitsburg & Frederick

The YMCA of Frederick County is excited to announce the expansion of its Head Start program to include Early Head Start services, offering crucial educational and developmental support for our community’s youngest children and their families.

This fall, six new Early Head Start classrooms will open across Emmitsburg and Frederick, creating an engaging, safe environment for children ages 0-3. With the capacity to enroll more than 36 infants and toddlers in Frederick County, this expansion brings vital resources and opportunities to local families and underscores the YMCA’s commitment to building brighter futures from the earliest stages of life.

In Emmitsburg, two classrooms will open at 300 South Seton Avenue, featuring extended-care options to better support families with flexible schedules. In Frederick, two locations will open at the Beth Sholom Congregation, located at 1011 N. Market Street, directly across from the Downtown Y, and another two classrooms will be at the Staley building, located at 11 W. 10th Street, just down the street from the Downtown Y.

“Our goal is to make sure every child in our community has the chance to thrive,” said Stacey Wantz, Director of Head Start Programs at the YMCA of Frederick County. “Expanding our services with Early Head Start helps us reach more families and provide critical support during these foundational years of a child’s life. We are excited to bring this impactful program to families in both Frederick and Emmitsburg.”

Families interested in enrolling their children in the Early Head Start program are invited to apply now. This expansion allows us to serve more than 36 infants and toddlers across the county, connecting each child to a nurturing, enriching environment and linking families to resources that foster early learning and growth.

To apply, visit our website at frederickymca.org/head-start-pre-application or contact our Early Head Start enrollment team at 301-663-5131 x1278.

YMCA is currently seeking to hire positions for both the Emmitsburg and Frederick locations. Visit frederickymca.org/about-us/careers.

The YMCA will also be hosting two Open House/Job Fairs: Tuesday, December 3: at YMCA/Head Start Administrative Offices, 801 N. East Street (entrance on 8th Street), Frederick, from 3:00-6:00 p.m.; Thursday, December 5: Emmitsburg Early Head Start Center, 300 South Seton Avenue (around the back), Emmitsburg, from 3:00-6:00 p.m. These Open House/Job Fairs offer an opportunity for interested families to learn more about Early Head Start, tour the facilities, and meet YMCA staff. Job seekers can learn about available positions, ask questions, and apply on-site.

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