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.

Head Start’s Impact Across Generations

Opportunity to view the National Archives’ presentation of Jenny is a ...
Read More

Meet Natalie Hankins, NHSA’s 2022 Aubrey Puckett Awardee

Aubrey Puckett Memorial Awardee Natalie Hankins says "the wonderful and positive ...
Read More

Alumni Spotlight: Maryom McCloud says “Head Start is a Catalyst”

Alumna Maryom McCloud, director of Finance for Lutheran Family Services, shares ...
Read More

Celebrating One Year of SNAP Eligibility

Celebrating one year since Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program became ...
Read More

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.

Stay Informed about Head Start Happenings

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.