For general inquires please contact BEOF at 201-437-7222
For specific inquiries please contact:
Director: Rosemary Simnowitz
rsimnowitz@bayonneheadstart.org
201-437-7702
Director of Social Services: Donnavan Heggs, M.Ed., M.S.W.
dheggs@bayonneheadstart.org
201-437-7702
Education/Literacy Manager: Gail Lovell
glovell@bayonneheadstart.org
201-437-7702
Overview
Stepping Stone Academy (formerly Bayonne Head Start) helps prepare young children to succeed in school. The program supports the mental, social, and emotional development of low-income and special needs children 3 to 5 years of age. Teachers and managers work closely with families to create an education plan tailored to each child’s unique characteristics and strengths to support school readiness. Educators are supported by a team of specialists, including a school clinical psychologist, a nutrition consultant, and a registered nurse.
We currently operate across three locations:
- 21 West 8th Street (former City Hall Annex Building)
- 557 Kennedy Boulevard
- 7 West 9th Street
Limited transportation is available.
Looking Ahead
We are thrilled to share a first look at the future home of Stepping Stone Academy (formerly Bayonne Head Start), which will be located at the site of the former Holy Family Academy in Bayonne, NJ! This exciting vision brings to life our vision to unite our three sites under one roof, creating a bright, state-of-the-art learning environment where young minds will grow, explore, and thrive.
As this transformative project moves forward, we’re excited to invite local businesses, organizations, and community members to be part of the journey. Opportunities will be available to sponsor classroom spaces and contribute to the creation of this inspiring new chapter for early childhood education in our community.
Stay tuned — there’s so much more to come, and we can’t wait to share every step with you!
Eligibility
In general, the children of families whose income falls at or below the poverty level are eligible for Head Start. Homeless children, those in foster care, and those whose families receive public assistance also qualify for Head Start, regardless of income level.
How to Apply
Visit our offices at 555 Kennedy Boulevard (between 21st and 22nd Streets) or at 21 West 8th Street in Bayonne, N.J. Friendly staff members are available to help you complete the applications. You can also call 201-437-7702 for more information or visit our Head Start website.
Our offices open at 8:30 a.m., Monday through Friday, and close at 3:30 p.m.
Bayonne Head Start is now accepting online applications!
Please note that the applicant MUST be 3 years old by October 1st of the current school year.
Click here to apply and a confirmation email will be sent to you with documents required.