As the largest national conference devoted to all things Head Start, the annual National Head Start Conference brings the Head Start community together for a week of sharing knowledge, networking with peers, and celebrating achievements.
NHSA’s 51st annual National Head Start Conference will be held in Portland, Oregon. With over 100 interesting, compelling, and challenging sessions, you will also find:
- Plenty of special events, celebrations, and entertainment
- Networking opportunities with hundreds of Head Start colleagues from across the country
- The largest collection of exhibitors offering products and services (and even some free stuff) for Head Start and Early Head Start programs
- And keynote speakers who will make you cry, laugh, and cheer!
NHSA’s 51st annual National Head Start Conference will be held in Portland, Oregon. With over 100 interesting, compelling, and challenging sessions, you will also find:
- Plenty of special events, celebrations, and entertainment
- Networking opportunities with hundreds of Head Start colleagues from across the country
- The largest collection of exhibitors offering products and services (and even some free stuff) for Head Start and Early Head Start programs
- And keynote speakers who will make you cry, laugh, and cheer!
Participate in the Event
Sign up to be notified when registration opens!
Schedule at a Glance
Sunday, April 14
3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Registration Desk Open
Monday, April 15
8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Registration Desk Open
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Pre-Conference Sessions (Separate Registration & Fee Required)
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Welcome Reception & Exhibit Hall Grand Opening
Tuesday, April 16
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Registration Desk Open
9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
General Opening Session
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Breakout Sessions
12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall Open
1:45 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Breakout Sessions
3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Breakout Sessions
Wednesday, April 17
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Registration Desk Open
8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall Open
9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Breakout Sessions
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Breakout Sessions
1:45 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Breakout Sessions
3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Breakout Sessions
4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Scholarship & Awards Program
7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
After Glow
Thursday, April 18
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Registration Desk Open
9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Breakout Sessions
10:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
General Closing Session
Why is this such an important event?
The Head Start community is driven like none other to provide opportunities for success in the lives of our nation's most vulnerable children and families. It’s important that our community gathers together every year to refresh our commitment to Head Start’s vital mission, and discuss the latest developments, innovations, and obstacles in early childhood. Only by stepping away from our day-to-day work can we look at the big picture and help propel Head Start to even greater heights.
Celebrate After-Hours
Opportunities to reconnect with all your colleagues you have not seen for more than a year!
- The Scholarships and Awards - Free!
Celebrate talented and innovative Head Start and Early Head Start staff, parents, and programs. - The Exhibit Hall Grand Opening Reception - Free!
Explore the largest gathering of vendors and service providers for Head Start - AfterGlow Lounge - Free!
Step out and dance with friends and colleagues. - Alumni After Happy Hour - Paid ticket
Did you attend Head Start as a child? Join fellow Head Start alumni for a meet-up.