By: Melanee Cottrill, HSC Executive Director

Together, we are strong.

As we move forward from a divisive election, I am both inspired and energized by our Head Start community. In a recent teambuilding session, I was reminded that our diversity – not just demographically, but in thought, behavior, and belief – is the source of our strength. Our differing perspectives honor and reflect the many experiences and realities of the communities we serve. Even when it’s hard to see, it is in this diversity that we find our greatest strength and potential.

I know that many in our Head Start community are looking to the future with mixed reactions. Some, including our partners at NHSA, are feeling optimistic about the future – after all, Head Start saw significant funding increases during the last Trump administration. Still, others are concerned about new challenges our families could face, including our partners at NMSHSA.

Regardless of how each of us feels about the election results, one fundamental tie binds us together – our dedication to Head Start and the families we serve. At HSC, we stand unwaveringly with you, ready to celebrate successes and confront challenges, no matter what the future brings. Together we are strong. Together we will make a difference for those who need us most. As you look ahead, I hope you focus on the ties that connect, strengthen, and uplift us all.

While much about the new administration remains to be seen, here are some key points we know so far:

Federal Budget: In September, Congress passed a Continuing Resolution to fund the Federal government through December 20. To avoid a government shutdown, Congress must take further budget action before this date. Both chambers of Congress and the current White House have proposed increases in Head Start funding, though to varying degrees.

Department of Education: Head Start operates under the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), not the Department of Education. Any changes to the Department of Education, including abolishing it, would not directly impact Head Start.

Department of Health and Human Services: President Trump has nominated Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to serve as Director of DHHS. If confirmed, the Office of Head Start (OHS), which operates within DHHS, would fall under his authority. While his family was instrumental in the launch of Head Start, Kennedy has yet to speak publicly about his position on Head Start.

Office of Head Start: As a political appointee, Director Khari Garvin’s tenure at OHS will end in January. It is expected that an interim director will lead OHS until President Trump appoints a successor. The timeline for an appointment is uncertain, historically ranging from several months to a full year.

Performance Standard Updates: Under the Congressional Review Act, Congress has the ability to roll back the recently adopted Final Rule and a Resolution has been introduced to do so. Congress may not vote on the resolution; if it does a vote will occur by March, possibly sooner. If Congress adopts the resolution, the entire Final Rule would be rescinded and the Head Start Program Performance Standards would revert to their prior form.

Here are a few actions you can take now to ensure Head Start is poised for a strong future:

Share Your Stories: Share your Head Start success stories far and wide! Be sure to tag your Representative, Senator Padilla, and incoming Senator Schiff in any social media posts so they know the impact your program has on the community they serve.

Write to Congress: Use NHSA’s quick and easy online form to urge Congress to invest in Head Start in this year’s budget.

Go to DC: Join HSC and over 500 Head Start advocates in Washington, D.C., for NHSA’s Winter Leadership Institute. This is an incredible opportunity to connect with your Representatives and share the impactful work your program is doing for your community. Let’s ensure they understand the vital role Head Start plays in supporting children and families across the nation.

Join the GO Team: HSC is looking to designate one program in each Congressional District as the “GO to” program for each member of Congress. We are supporting NHSA’s goal to have every member visit a Head Start program this year. If your program would like to join the GO Team and be the designated location for a member of Congress to GO, email me.