YMCA of Frederick County Expands Early Childhood Education with Launch of Early Head Start Program
New Classrooms Opening in Frederick and Emmitsburg; Now Accepting Applications and Hiring Staff; Open House/Job Fair Dec. 3 & 5
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 Frederick and Emmitsburg, 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.
The Early Head Start classrooms in Frederick will be housed at two accessible locations near the YMCA’s Downtown Frederick facility. Two classrooms will open at the Beth Sholom Congregation, located at 1011 N Market St., directly across from the Downtown Y, and another two classrooms will be at the Staley building, located at 11 W 10th St., just down the street from the Downtown Y. In Emmitsburg, two classrooms will open at 300 South Seton Avenue, featuring extended care options to better support families with flexible schedules.
Early Head Start focuses on nurturing children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development in a safe, caring, and enriching environment. In addition to early childhood education, the program offers health screenings, nutritional guidance, and support for families, helping children and parents thrive together.
“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.”
Now Enrolling: Applications Open for Early Head Start Children, Ages 0-3
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.
Now Hiring: Infant/Toddler Teachers and Cook Aide
As we prepare to open these new classrooms, the YMCA of Frederick County is also seeking caring and enthusiastic individuals to join our team. Current open positions include:
- Infant/Toddler Teachers (Frederick & Emmitsburg): We’re looking for dedicated educators with experience in early childhood development to create meaningful, age-appropriate learning experiences for infants and toddlers. Tuition Assistance Available.
- Infant/Toddler Teacher’s Aides (Frederick & Emmitsburg): This role supports teachers in providing a nurturing, engaging environment that fosters each child’s development.
- Cook: This role supports our nutrition program by helping prepare healthy meals and snacks for the children in our care.
- Bus Driver: This position requires previous experience and a commitment to safety and reliability in transporting children to and from our Early Head Start classrooms.
These positions offer a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of young children and their families. Joining the YMCA means becoming part of a dedicated team committed to strengthening the foundations of community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. For more information on applying for available positions, please visit our website at frederickymca.org/about-us/careers or email your resume to humanresources@frederickymca.org.
The YMCA of Frederick County is honored to bring Early Head Start to Frederick and Emmitsburg and looks forward to empowering our community’s children and families, ensuring every child has the chance to reach their full potential.
To support recruitment efforts and provide information about enrollment, the YMCA will host two Open House/Job Fairs:
- Tuesday, December 3: YMCA/Head Start Administrative Offices, 801 N. East Street (entrance on 8th Street), Frederick, MD, from 3-6pm
- Thursday, December 5: Emmitsburg Early Head Start Center, 300 South Seton Avenue (around the back), Emmitsburg, MD, from 3-6pm
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.
