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 exists to ensure that all children have the chance to succeed in school and life. We are the voice for nearly 700,000 children, 250,000 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.

Alumni Resilience Series: Churmell Mitchell

Churmell Mitchell navigated childhood trauma and homelessness to become a national ...
Read More

Advocacy All Stars Honored at 2024 Fall Leadership Institute

Head Start advocacy extends far beyond the four days of the Fall and Winter ...
Read More

Alumni Spotlight: New Mexico Lt. Governor Howie Morales

Head Start was a game changer for Howie Morales and helped him to blaze new ...
Read More

Therapeutic Interagency Preschool Program Serves Infants and Toddlers who’ve Experienced Trauma

WCCS launched its Therapeutic Interagency Preschool program to address the growing ...
Read More
Explore More Stories

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.