MSU Extension Head Start
The Mississippi State University Extension Service Head Start program, offered in Harrison and Hancock counties, is designed to help children and their families make a smooth and successful transition from early care settings into kindergarten. The program combines strong local partnerships with research-based educational practices to support children during this critical stage of development.
Our Head Start centers proudly serve the communities of Gilbert Mason, East Biloxi, and Gaston Point, with Linda Lyons serving as our Early Head Start center in Harrison County. As we expand into Hancock County, we are increasing access to high-quality early childhood education and comprehensive services for additional families in the region. Our commitment extends through partnerships with local school districts, including the Gulfport School District, Biloxi Public School District, and the Hancock County School District.
In collaboration with Moore Community House and Shine Early Learning, we provide a full range of supports and services to children and families. Moore Community House houses our Early Head Start program, including the Linda Lyons Center, while Shine Early Learning plays a vital role in delivering ongoing program support and quality improvement.
By serving families in both Harrison and Hancock counties, MSU Extension continues to strengthen communities while building a model for high-quality early childhood education that can be shared and replicated statewide.
Enrollment Information:
If you are interested in enrolling your child in Head Start, please call us at 228-365-9621.
Enrollment Forms:
Location Information:
MSU-Extension Head Start Program Administrative Office
521 34th Street
Gulfport, MS 39507
Phone: 228-241-2181
Email: msuheadstart@ext.msstate.edu
East Biloxi Head Start
590 Division Street
Biloxi, MS 39530
Phone: 228-967-7290
Gaston Point Head Start
1526 Mills Avenue
Gulfport, MS 39501
Phone: 228-731-3746
Gilbert Mason Head Start
4221 Popp’s Ferry Road
D’Iberville, MS 39540
Phone: 228-967-7257
Interested in working with Head Start? Apply now!
This website is supported by Grant Number G00004479 from the Office of Head Start within the Administration for Children and Families, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Neither the Administration for Children and Families nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse this website (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of Mississippi State University Extension Service and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Administration for Children and Families and the Office of Head Start.