The Academy at NHSA Honored with 2024 Training APEX Award for Excellence in Training Programs

Washington, D.C.— NHSA is proud to announce that the Academy, NHSA’s professional development hub, was named as the recipient of the 2024 Training APEX Award. This esteemed award, presented by Training Magazine, highlights The Academy’s innovative approach and exceptional contribution to training methodologies which directly benefit the Head Start community and its vital mission of supporting the 360 degree development of eligible children and families across the US.

The Academy was specifically acknowledged for its transformative impact on individuals and organizations within the Head Start field. This recognition underscores The Academy’s commitment to elevating standards and reshaping the training landscape, ultimately amplifying the efficacy and quality of Head Start educational practices.

“Within a mere two years, the Academy has successfully built and implemented an online learning system benefiting hundreds of thousands of Early/Head Start staff nationwide that we are immensely proud of. These dedicated individuals work tirelessly with our nation’s most vulnerable children and families every day. It’s crucial to equip Head Start staff members with the necessary training for the success of these children, their families, and the future of our nation,” said Dr. Deborah Bergeron, Deputy Director of Community Engagement and Innovation.

This award not only celebrates NHSA’s dedication to pioneering educational excellence but also reinforces NHSA’s commitment to serving the Head Start field. The Academyremains steadfast in its mission to provide innovative, impactful training methodologies that directly benefit the Head Start educators, children, and families we serve.

For more information about The Academy at NHSA and its award-winning program, specifically tailored to enhance Head Start education, please visit nhsa.org/the-academy/.

About NHSA

The National Head Start Association (NHSA) is a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization dedicated to realizing the promise of Head Start; that all children have a chance to succeed in school and in life. NHSA is the voice for nearly 700,000 children served by more than 250,000 staff every single day in rural, urban, and suburban communities in all 50 states. In 2025, we celebrate 60 years of service to 40 million children, their families, and communities across the country. ••• Media Contact: Lauren Lawson-Zilai; Senior Director, Communications; media@nhsa.org

In Recent News

NHSA Statement on FY26 Appropriations for Head Start

NHSA issued a statement on Head Start in the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act passed by the Senate Appropriations Committee earlier today.

Read More

Early Head Start Providers, Parents and Experts Urge Congress to Prioritize Babies’ Development During Appropriations

Early Head Start providers, parents and experts urged Congress to consider the important role Early Head Start plays in ensuring the development of America’s youngest learners.

Read More

Statement from National Head Start Association Executive Director Yasmina Vinci on HHS Decision To Change Head Start Enrollment Criteria

NHSA responds to HHS DECISION TO CHANGE HEAD START ENROLLMENT CRITERIA

Read More