Pontiac, Michigan (CNN) -- Lamont Butler is a single father, unemployed for more than a year and trying to do the best for his daughter, 3-year-old Samaya. The family qualifies for the federal government's free pre-kindergarten program, Head Start, but has been on a waiting list for more than a year. It's tough on both of them; Butler has trouble finding work because he's caring for his daughter, and he worries Samaya is missing out on valuable early education. "My friend's son got in, and at 4, he can already spell his name, do simple math, and he isn't so shy any more," Butler said.
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An investigation into Head Start enrollment practices shows some centers enroll families who make too much money
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Thousands are on waiting lists for the free pre-kindergarten classes
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Head Start leaders are adding more training, checks to enrollment to prevent fraud
For parents like Butler and kids like @placeholder, that means the wait continues.