Leaguers Head Start

Leaguers Head Start is a preschool in Irvington, New Jersey, serving children from infancy through age five through its Head Start and Early Head Start programs. The center provides developmentally appropriate, nurturing learning environments focused on school readiness, early childhood education, and family support. It serves over 1,100 children aged 3 to 5 and 400 infants and toddlers annually, offering services such as health and nutrition, mental health and disability support, male mentoring, and parent and family engagement. The program is part of The Leaguers Inc., a nonprofit organization with over 70 years of service in Essex and Union Counties, dedicated to empowering children and families through education and community pride. With a 4.70 rating, it is recognized for its strong commitment to quality early childhood development.

Founded in 1943, The Leaguers Inc. is the oldest incorporated African American social service agency in New Jersey, rooted in Newark and expanding to Irvington, Union Township, Roselle, and Elizabeth. The organization’s mission centers on enhancing the quality of life through diverse educational and cultural programs that foster self-growth, personal development, and community pride. It operates under the principle of “Opportunity through Education,” collaborating with local agencies to provide holistic support to over 1,700 families each year. The Head Start program emphasizes early learning, safety, and family engagement, while initiatives like the Male Mentoring Program and apprenticeship program reflect its broader commitment to community empowerment and long-term family stability.

Located on Linden Avenue in Irvington, the center sits just a short walk from Walsh High School and Saint Leos School, both within a quarter-mile radius. It is situated near key thoroughfares including Springfield Avenue, Eastern Parkway, and the Garden State Parkway, placing it within easy reach of major regional routes.

The Leaguers Head Start is distinguished by its deep community roots, long-standing reputation for excellence, and consistent delivery of comprehensive early childhood services. Its well-documented presence online and optimized digital footprint reflect a reliable, transparent organization trusted by families across the region.

As a cornerstone of early education in Irvington, Leaguers Head Start continues to strengthen families and build a foundation for lifelong success within the city’s diverse neighborhoods.