FAQ

Q:  How do I know if I am eligible to enroll my child at Pathways?
A:  State and federal regulations regarding eligibility can be complicated; the intake department staff will help you determine if you are eligible and how to best document your eligibility.  There are some subsidized slots that can be filled with children who fall above the guidelines, so we encourage everyone to apply.  In addition, there are slots for children whose families can afford to pay the full cost of care. Contact the Intake Department: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 978-281-2400 extension 280.

Q:  How much does it cost to send my child to Pathways?
A: Most Pathways enrollment slots are filled based on a sliding fee scale, with some fees as low as zero, depending upon income.  Part day Head Start is free to every eligible child.  There are also enrollment opportunities for families who can afford to pay the full cost of care.

Q: How many children do you serve on a daily basis and what are their ages?
A:  It varies between 450 475 children ages birth to thirteen.

Q: How many staff does Pathways employ?
A: Approximately 110 staff and 17 subcontractors who operate family child care from their homes and are part of our system of care.

Q: How large is your organization?
A: Our FY ‘09 annual budget is  $5.3M.

Q: What are the sources of your funding?
A: For the year ending December, 2008:
Private contributions 15%
Contracts with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 27%
Contracts with the Commonwealth of MA (Department of Early Education and Care) 48% 
United States Department of Agriculture 4%
Consumer fees (sliding fee, based on income) 5%

Q: What communities do you serve?
A: Gloucester, Rockport, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Ipswich, Essex, and Rowley.

Q: What Local, National and State affiliations do you have?
A:  The National Head Start Association, The Children’s League of Massachusetts, Massachusetts Association of Early Care and Education, Provider’s Council of Massachusetts, Gloucester Sexual Abuse Prevention Project (GSAPP), Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce.

Q:  Does Pathways collaborate with other local organizations?
A: We take great pride in serving the Cape Ann community and have always appreciated the connections we have, not only with other not-for-profit organizations that complement our mission, but also with local businesses and voluntary service projects.

Q:  How does your Pathways plan for the future?
A: Representatives of our Board of Directors and staff have recently concluded a three-year strategic plan.  Acknowledging that the current economic climate complicates future planning, we have elected to establish action steps for the first year only.  Prior to the end of that period, we will revisit the strategic goals, make any adjustments that are warranted, and establish action steps for the following year. Members of the Board, Parent Policy Council and Staff pride themselves on their ability to identify and pursue opportunities to strengthen and enhance our organization while anticipating and managing internal and external challenges.