HomeChild CareNew MexicoPueblo of Acoma Child Care
How to Apply: Pueblo of Acoma Child Care
New Mexico · 6 StepsFamilies with kids 6 weeks to 3 years (Child Care) or ages 3 to 5 (Head Start); families who meet income guidelines get priority for Head Start
Take it one step at a time. We're here to help.
Quick facts
Step 1 of 6: Pick your program
- Head Start ages 3 to 5
- Child Care 6 weeks to 3 years
Good to know: Head Start is free. Both programs share Acoma culture and Keres language every day.Step 2 of 6: Get your papers ready
- Child's Social Security card
- Birth certificate
- Proof of your money or aid
- Medical insurance proof
Important: If your child has a disability or IEP/IFSP, or foster care papers, bring those too.Step 3 of 6: Get the application
- Download from the Acoma website
- Or call 505-552-6959
Step 4 of 6: Turn it in
- In person: 15 Turtle Shell Rd
- Email CSanchez@poamail.org
- Fax 505-552-9455
Good to know: Head Start takes applications all year round.Step 5 of 6: Wait for your spot
- Staff review and prioritize
- You may go on a wait list
Important: There is no fixed timeline. Child Care spots depend on CCDF funding and availability.Step 6 of 6: Start school
- Healthy snacks and lunch included
- Welcome to Haak'u!
Good to know: Children with disabilities are fully included and get early support services.
A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for Pueblo of Acoma Child Care.
What is the Haak'u Learning Center Early Childhood Program?
Haak'u Learning Center, part of the Pueblo of Acoma's Department of Education, offers:
Head Start (ages 3–5): a comprehensive school-readiness program with education, family engagement, health screenings, nutrition, language (Keres), and transportation
Child Care (ages 6 weeks–3 years): high-quality care funded by CCDF, designed for families working, attending school, or training/job-seeking.
The curriculum incorporates Acoma cultural values and the Acoma (Keres) language, supporting children’s growth in a nurturing, familiar environment.
How do I apply?
Download and complete the Haak’u Learning Center service application (Head Start & Child Care) available on the Acoma website.
Gather required documents (see next section).
Submit to Haak'u:
In person at 15 Turtle Shell Rd, Acoma, NM 87034
By email to CSanchez@poamail.org
Or via fax at 505‑552‑9455
How long does it take to receive services?
There’s no fixed timeline. Head Start accepts applications year-round and fills openings from the wait list based on priority need.
Child Care slots depend on availability and CCDF eligibility, typically processed upon document submission.
What do the application steps look like?
Complete the Head Start & Child Care application.
Submit with all required documents.
Application is reviewed and prioritized by staff.
Head Start families are contacted when enrollment opens or if placed on the wait list.
Child Care families are processed based on CCDF funding and need.
Once accepted, services begin according to program schedules.
What documentation is required?
Required for both Head Start and Child Care:
Completed application form
Child’s Social Security number and SS card cop
Proof of age (state birth certificate)
Proof of income or assistance (pay stubs, W-2, 1040, TANF, SSI, etc.)
Medical insurance proof (Medicaid, private)
Disability documentation or IEP/IFSP, if applicable
Court/foster care documents, if in legal guardianship
Common FAQs
Who is eligible?
Head Start: children ages 3–5, with low-income families prioritized but not required
Child Care: children 0–3 years with parents working, in school, or job-seeking; eligibility based on CCDF funding.
Is there a cost?Head Start is free. Child Care may require a co-pay depending on income and CCDF rules.
Are meals provided?Yes—Head Start provides USDA-standard healthy snacks and lunches; child care includes caring routines and learning activities.
How is language incorporated?The program includes Keres language learning integrated into daily routines and activities.
What about children with disabilities?Early identification and support services are provided; children with disabilities are fully included under both programs.
Who do I contact about my application status?
Haak'u Learning Center
📍 15 Turtle Shell Rd, Acoma, NM 87034
📞 (505) 552‑6959
Acoma Department of Education
📞 (505) 552‑5170
📍 49 Pinsbaari Drive, Acoma, NM 87034
Last updated June 17, 2025