Head Start WEST

06/05/2026

Important new report from National Institute for Early Education Research regarding the impact rolling back regulations.

A new NIEER policy brief examines how rolling back Head Start wage requirements would impact Head Start's capacity to fulfill its mission. On May 12, 2026, the Office of Head Start published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) proposing to rescind 2024 Head Start teacher wage regulations. The regulations required the creation of wage scales and progress toward pay parity by 2031, with Head Start salaries reaching public pre-K levels or 90% of kindergarten teacher pay. Our analysis finds the proposed changes could reduce access and impact on school readiness.

The new report, "The Real Cost of Rolling Back Head Start Wage Requirements," authored by Morgan Healy, Rachel Fidel, and Steve Barnett, sheds light on gaps in services to eligible families, wage gaps between Head Start and K-12 teachers, and likely negative consequences of rolling back teacher compensation requirements on program quality and child outcomes. It includes state-by-state data, including comparisons between Head Start and K-12 teacher salaries.

Link to report in comments.

06/05/2026

Congratulations Utah Community Action - Well deserved!

We are deeply honored to announce that our Head Start program has been named a 2026 winner! 🏆

This marks the 9th time we have received this recognition, but the true reward is in the impact. Serving over 2,000 children annually, we are dedicated to providing research-based curriculum and comprehensive family support to ensure every child has the tools to reach their full potential.

A huge thank you to our amazing staff and educators who make awards like this possible!

06/05/2026

The best advocates for Head Start are always the children and families.

06/05/2026

Yes! Well said HSCA

Head Start is a lifeline for families — in cities, suburbs and rural communities across the country.

Polling shows strong nationwide support for Head Start, a foundational program in America’s early childhood system. Each year, it provides over 800,000 children and pregnant women with quality early learning, health care services, family supports, home visiting, and developmental screenings.

Join the collation of professionals, families and supporters working to protect .

06/02/2026

For years, Head Start WEST has been proud to partner with Clean Air Dynamics and its President, Raleigh Guice, whose commitment to creating healthier learning environments continues to support children, families, and staff across our network.

Clean Air Dynamics delivers innovative air purification solutions designed specifically for educational settings, helping programs improve indoor air quality while reducing maintenance costs. Their systems feature:

✅ No filters to buy or replace
✅ 7-year warranty on the Protect 900
✅ Sub-second pathogen destruction times
✅ Attendance improvement studies available
✅ In-Kind Match Program opportunities

We are grateful for Raleigh's longstanding partnership and shared dedication to ensuring Head Start classrooms remain safe, healthy, and ready for learning. Together, we're investing in environments where children can thrive every day.

05/30/2026

Yes. All Head Start staff!

Calling all Head Start and Early Head Start Staff! The Administration is proposing changes to Head Start Performance Standards that will impact staff wages. Please sign on to this official comment by June 10, and let them know that Head Start staff deserve a living wage! https://bit.ly/headstartsalaries

05/29/2026

At Head Start WEST, we believe strong workplaces create stronger outcomes for children and families. When people feel valued, supported, and connected to a shared purpose, innovation, leadership, and collaboration thrive.

Our annual Positive Workplace Attitudes Scale Survey is an opportunity to reflect on the culture we are building together across the Head Start community—one grounded in inclusivity, kindness, courage, and leadership.

Take the survey here:https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LSWPM8G

Your voice matters.
Your feedback helps strengthen our community.
Your perspective helps shape the future of our work.

Take a few moments to complete the survey today. Results will be shared during Head Start WEST’s July 2026 Executive Leadership Council and Workforce Summit in Denver, Colorado and will help guide future leadership and workplace culture conversations.

05/25/2026

Happy Memorial Day from Head Start West!

Today we honor the brave heroes who gave everything so our children could have a brighter future — and that's a mission close to our hearts. At Head Start WEST, we believe every child deserves the best possible start in life, and it's because of the sacrifices of so many that we're able to do this work.

Our offices will be closed in observance of Memorial Day. We'll be back and ready to serve our community on Tuesday!

05/22/2026

We’re hiring! Explore this exciting opportunity to lead our dynamic organization and make a meaningful impact.

Executive Director (ED) Lead. Inspire. Elevate Head Start. Location: In-Office, Sacramento, CAEmployment Type: Full-Time, ExemptSalary Range: $125,000-$150,000 annually, negotiableStart Date: October 2026 (or as determined)Application Review: Rolling About Head Start WEST Region 9 Head Start Associa...