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.

Celebrating One Year of SNAP Eligibility

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

Head Start Parent Advocates for Access to Quality Child Care

Theresa Carter, Head Start parent from Step Forward Head Start in Ohio, shared ...
Read More

Building Partnerships between Community Colleges and Head Start

Kids on Campus is a project by the NHSA and the Association of Community College ...
Read More

Head Start State Collaboration Office Spotlight: Missouri

Missouri Head Start State Collaboration Office Director Stacey Wright is powerful ...
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.