Advocating for Head Start

Together, we are the untiring voice that will not be quiet until every child has access to the Head Start model of support.

Advocacy powers Head Start and Early Head Start.

As the power behind our nation's flagship early learning program, Head Start and Early Head Start staff instinctively advocate for children, families, their workplaces, and their communities. NHSA's legislative and political advocacy advances the profession and the cause of our youngest learners. NHSA's members and advocates work in every part of the preschool universe—from the classroom, to providing support to new and expecting families at home, to driving buses, and more—and NHSA has affiliate organizations in every state and region of the nation.

Take Action for Head Start

Take Action for Head Start: Congress needs to hold the line for Head Start as it works toward finalizing appropriations for Fiscal Year 2024.

MLK

Subscribe to NHSA’s Action Alerts

We rely on your voice for our advocacy and engagement in DC and across the country. When it comes to moving Congress, there’s strength in numbers. Sign up for our mailing list to receive our action alerts and updates on policy issues relevant to Head Start. We will email you about key legislative actions and…

Sign-On Letters

NHSA leads and joins letters to those in positions of power requesting that they take action.

Federal Register Comments

NHSA files written submissions on issues related to Head Start in the Federal Register.

Congressional Testimony

NHSA routinely provide testimony to the Senate and House committees of Congress.

Explore NHSA's Advocacy Tools

EHS Advocacy Site Visits Recording

EHS Advocacy Site Visits Recording on how to host members of Congress at your program to illustrate the value of Head Start!

Download Now

Head Start Town Hall Toolkit

Town halls are a great opportunity to engage your elected officials. NHSA’s Town Hall Toolkit provides guidance for attending in-person and virtually.

Download Now

SNAP Eligibility Implementation Toolkit

NHSA has designed a toolkit to support implementation of the SNAP eligibility change in Head Start and Early Head Start programs.

Download Now

6 Steps to Spread Head Start Awareness through the Media

Airtime on local media is one of the most effective ways to communicate Head Start’s value to new audiences.

Download Now

Explore NHSA's Policy Resources

NPRM Response & Summary

The Head Start community’s collective response to the Supporting the Head Start Workforce and Consistent Quality Programming NPRM.

Read More...

Confronting Head Start’s Workforce Crisis

Between low compensation, challenging job conditions, and better opportunities with better pay, the Head Start workforce is in crisis.

Read More...

Lead Exposure & Safe Drinking Water

This resource helps individuals and Head Start programs assess potential risks of exposure to lead through drinking water.

Read More...