The Beans and National Head Start Association Celebrate Two Years of Success Improving Employee Retention and Wellbeing for America’s Educators

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — The Beans, a financial technology startup, and National Head Start Association (NHSA), a pioneer in early childhood development and education, proudly mark the second anniversary of their partnership to reduce stress and support staff retention.

Financial stress continues to rank as the most persistent form of stress in America, with teachers experiencing proportionately higher levels. The partnership between The Beans and NHSA provides Head Start teachers and program staff nationwide with access to The Beans’ evidence-based content, tools, and support. The program is available through NHSA’s Academy and boasts an impressive 4.96/5 star user rating. 

“The research is clear. When you relieve financial stress, people are happier and more productive, and they stay in the roles they love,” said Melissa Pancoast, Founder and CEO of The Beans. “The Beans and NHSA partnership supports the physical and mental health of one of our most valuable assets, our nation’s early childhood educators.” 

The Beans nurtures the pursuit of financial goals aligning with individuals’ intentions and promoting positive financial behaviors. This evidence-based approach has been found to contribute to staff retention and employee satisfaction.

“Prior to implementing these strategies our turnover rate was 33.4%…our turnover rate has dropped to 6.6% and we have seen 9.5% growth in staffing within the Head Start program ” said Heather Decker, Director RECAP Head Start, NY.

Through this partnership, participating teachers and program staff participate in The Beans’ “Visual Financial Planning” professional development, enabling them to analyze their financial stress levels and personal financial narratives, while also learning how to create and maintain a cash-flow plan. In addition to their evidence-based approach, what sets The Beans apart is their focus on serving America’s Caring Class, those working in education, healthcare, nonprofits, and public service. 

“It is no surprise that our community has chosen The Beans’ course as one of their highest rated,” said Yasmina Vinci, NHSA Executive Director. “They provide immense value for our educators. Participants walk away with an understanding of their finances, a path forward, and support every step of the way to achieving their financial goals.”

For more information about the Beans visit www.thebeans.io.


ABOUT THE BEANS

The Beans (www.thebeans.io) is simplifying the path to financial success. The financial technology company automates cash flow planning and support for America’s Caring Class, those who choose careers of mission over money. The Beans delivers the world’s first Visual Financial Plan, an evidence-based approach to personal finances that works, enabling members to achieve financial goals and break free from financial stress. Founded by a former math teacher turned University of Oxford researcher, The Beans is available on Google Play and the Apple App Store.

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 800,000 children, 250,000 staff and 1,600 Head Start and Early Head Start grantees in the United States. ••• Media Contact: media@nhsa.org

In Recent News

Norwalk High School Students Complete National Head Start Association’s Innovative Early Childhood Education Curriculum

Students at Norwalk High School complete The Academy at NHSA's Pathway to Purpose coursework to earn their CDA in Early Childhood Education.

Read More

The Academy at NHSA Receives 2025 Training APEX Award for Excellence in Training Programs

In November 2024, The Academy, NHSA’s professional development hub, was named a recipient of the 2025 Training APEX Award.

Read More

National Head Start Association Congratulates President-Elect Trump on Election Victory

The Head Start community extends its congratulations to President-Elect Donald J. Trump and Vice President-Elect J.D. Vance on their election.  

Read More