The First Step
The request for an application is the first step in the process. You can contact the center located closest to your home or workplace and request an application. Applications may also be found on this site by going to the page for the school you are interested in, and downloading the printable forms. CUI offers full or part-day programming to meet the needs of parents.  Since CUI receives more applications than slots available in our programs, we maintain an active wait list from which vacancies are filled as they occur.  Submission of an application does not guarantee acceptance into our programs.

You will be asked to submit proof of your child's age.  If your child is entering a subsidized slot, you will be asked to provide additional information, such as proof of income and proof of residence. 

Children with special needs are encouraged to apply.  To assist in the application process, staff will request copies of any assessments, evaluations, or reports done by specialists working with your child.  This will assist us in determining if we are able to meet all of your child's needs.

Medical Information
With your application, you will be asked to submit medical and dental forms indicating the date of your child's last physical (must be within one year), results of vision and hearing screenings, lead test results, up to date immunizations and last dental appointment. No child can be enrolled without a complete immunization record and physical within the past year. You will also be asked to submit proof of your child’s age. If your child is entering a subsidized slot, you will be asked to provide additional information such as proof of income and proof of residence. 

How we are funded…
Communities United receives funding to provide subsidized care from the Federal Government for Head Start and Early Head Start and from the Massachusetts Department of Early Education & Care (EEC) for full day and extended day preschool and toddler programs.

Generally, the Dept of Early Education & Care (EEC) slots are filled from the State Wait List. If you are looking for financial assistance through EEC, please contact your local Resource & Referral Agency to add your child's name to the State Wait List.  (A link to the CCR&Rs is available on this website under Community Resources.)  

When there is an opening for which you qualify, you will be contacted by Center staff who will be available to answer your questions, provide information about the program and obtain additional information about your child and family.

When your child is accepted…
When your child is accepted for any CUI program, a meeting will be held during which time you will come to the Center with your child. You will complete a variety of forms including emergency contact information, permission forms, releases, etc. A home visit with the teacher will be scheduled to take place before your child starts to attend the program. The home visit allows the teacher to get to know you and your child in the comfort of the child’s home. This has been found to be an excellent way to transition young children into a child care setting. When these visits and forms are completed, a date will be set for you and your child to visit the program and your child's classroom.  This "phase-in" visit allows your child to meet his/her classroom teachers and classmates, and to become familiar with the classroom layout and routines.