GBCA Cliffside Park Head Start

GBCA Cliffside Park Head Start is a preschool in Cliffside Park, New Jersey, providing free early childhood education and family services to low-income families across Bergen County, Jersey City, and Paterson. The program serves infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children, offering comprehensive support that includes early education, health and nutrition services, parent education, family counseling, and financial guidance. All staff are CPR-certified, and meals, including breakfast, lunch, and snacks, are provided daily. The center serves families in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Turkish, Arabic, and Hindi. With a 4.00 rating based on five reviews, it is recognized for its commitment to child development and family well-being.

The program is part of Greater Bergen Community Action, which has served over 25,000 families since 1968. Head Start began in 1965 as a summer initiative and evolved into a year-round program focused on holistic development. At GBCA Cliffside Park Head Start, the mission extends beyond preparing children for kindergarten; it aims to strengthen entire families through sustained support. The team includes qualified professionals such as Lilyann Alcantara, a Head Teacher and former Head Start participant who holds a master’s degree in Early Childhood Studies and is CLASS-certified, and Aitza Gutierrez, a Family Worker with a background in sociology and human services. The center emphasizes inclusive, culturally responsive care and offers a menu calendar and ongoing family engagement.

Located at 263 Lafayette Avenue, the center sits just a short walk from Epithany School and Number 4 Elementary School, both within 300 meters. It is about 0.2 miles from Anderson Avenue and Palisade Avenue, and approximately 0.3 miles from Columbus Park. A mosque and public library named Cami are within 155 meters, highlighting the area’s diverse community infrastructure.

GBCA Cliffside Park Head Start maintains a strong online presence with thorough, well-documented information and a website optimized for search engines, making it easily accessible to families seeking early childhood resources. Its consistent, accurate digital footprint supports visibility and trust.

The center plays a vital role in Cliffside Park’s educational landscape, offering equitable early learning opportunities that strengthen families and prepare children for lifelong success.