NHSA Statement on Federal Government Shutdown

October 1, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. — At midnight on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, the United States federal government shut down after funding expired, with Congress and President Trump unable to agree on funding for fiscal year 2026. 

Despite the shutdown, Head Start programs will remain open across the country and Head Start staff, who are not federal employees, will continue to work for the foreseeable future. However, if a shutdown extends into weeks or months, the risk of classroom closures and staff furloughs rises sharply, directly affecting children, families, and communities. 

The following quote is attributed to Executive Director of the National Head Start Association, Yasmina Vinci:

“For more than 60 years, Head Start has had the steadfast, bipartisan support of leaders in Washington, D.C., because our mission — being the launchpad to success for children and families — transcends politics. Even as Congress debates and the government shuts down, Head Start programs will remain open. Families can rely on us, as they always have, to be a stable and dependable presence in their children’s lives.

That resilience, however, comes at a cost. Rising expenses and inflation are putting enormous pressure on Head Start programs already working tirelessly to serve every child and family who walks through their doors. Our teachers and staff, who are the backbone of Head Start, are doing heroic work on salaries that are often far below what they could earn elsewhere.

We know children cannot put their development on pause while politics play out. As Congress moves forward, we urge lawmakers from both parties not only to resolve this shutdown but also to provide the increased funding needed to keep Head Start strong and sustainable.”

CONTACT:
Tommy Sheridan, Deputy Director, NHSA
media@nhsa.org