Statement on FY18 Early Childhood Education Hearing

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to the Appropriations Subcommittee hearing on Early Childhood Education Programs at the Department of Health and Human Services, the following statement should be attributed to Yasmina Vinci, executive director of the National Head Start Association:

“With the release of the White House’s Fiscal Year 2018 ‘skinny budget’ and the prospect of an almost 18% budget cut looming, it is imperative lawmakers continue robust investment in domestic priorities, especially early childhood education. Head Start programs across the country offer critical and quality early learning services to a million vulnerable children and their families each year. Today’s hearing reflects the strong leadership of Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK-4)  and Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-3) and the Subcommittee’s continued commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to pursue the American dream. It was a positive step forward in the midst of the disconcerting news being generated by the release of the Administration Fiscal Year 2018 spending priorities. Head Start looks forward to continuing to work with Chairman Cole, Ranking Member DeLauro, and the rest of the Subcommittee to keep the national commitment to investing in the future of our nation’s most vulnerable children and families.”

About NHSA

The National Head Start Association is a not-for-profit organization committed to the belief that every child, regardless of circumstances at birth, has the ability to succeed in school and in life. The opportunities offered by Head Start lead to healthier, empowered children and families, and stronger, more vibrant communities. NHSA is the voice for more than 750,000 children, 250,000 staff and 1,600 Head Start and Early Head Start grantees in the United States. ••• Media Contact: Lauren Lawson-Zilai; Senior Director, Communications; media@nhsa.org

In Recent News

Kids on Campus Project Releases First Annual Progress Report

NHSA and ACCT released the Year One Progress Report of its Kids on Campus project to advance student-parent success.

Read More

Statement on Budget Proposal That Would Eliminate Head Start

NHSA is deeply alarmed by the proposal to eliminate Head Start contained in the leaked HHS 2026 Discretionary Budget Passback.

Read More

NHSA Expresses Deep Concern Over Administration Shuttering Regional Offices

NHSA is deeply concerned about the closing of regional offices and HHS's reorganization without open communication or a clear plan for how the administration intends on supporting Head Start.

Read More