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.
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
Advancing Conversations with Policymakers
Advancing Conversations with Policymakers webinar examines tips and techniques for building relationships with decisionmakers to advance Early Head Start.
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.
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.
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.
Explore NHSA's Policy Resources
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.
Head Start Policy Agenda
The national Head Start Policy Agenda serves as the guiding document for NHSA’s government affairs-related efforts.
Home Visiting and Support for Pregnant Women Issue Brief
Early Head Start home visiting provides services in the home to vulnerable children and families, fostering strong parent-child relationships.