Head Start is the National Commitment to

Give Every Vulnerable Child an Opportunity to Succeed.

The National Head Start Association's mission is to coalesce, inspire, and support the Head Start field as a leader in early childhood development and education. NHSA is committed to the belief that every child, regardless of circumstances at birth, has the ability to succeed in life. We are the voice for more than 1 million children, 275,000 staff, and 1,600 grant recipients in the United States. Since 1974, NHSA has worked for policy changes that ensure all income-eligible children have access to the Head Start model.

The Head Start promise is simple: every child, regardless of circumstances at birth, has the ability to reach their full potential.

Moving Forward: A Note from NHSA’s Executive Director

NHSA's executive director shares a note to leaders, staff, and programs on the ...
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Advocacy All Stars Honored at 2024 Fall Leadership Institute

Head Start advocacy extends far beyond the four days of the Fall and Winter ...
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How to Build Relationships With Diverse Families and Amplify Their Voices in Early Education

Learn how to build strong partnership and communications between educator and ...
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President’s Day and the History of Head Start

Head Start has been transforming the lives of Americans through 11 presidential ...
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Feeling Resourceful?

We’re here to help! Whether you are looking for tools, guides, reports, trainings, conference information, or help with a question about your program, NHSA's Resource Library has something for everyone. Explore by topic below.

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When it comes to creating change and supporting Head Start, there is strength in numbers! Subscribe to our monthly newsletter to stay up-to-date on advocacy opportunities, early childhood education news, and the latest from NHSA.