August marks the start of a new program year and a busy season for Head Start programs across Florida. As teams prepare classrooms, finalize screenings, and welcome families back, FHSA remains focused on supporting the workforce that makes this work possible.

Membership renewals for the 2026–2027 year are now underway. Your continued engagement strengthens our statewide advocacy and ensures Florida’s children and families receive the comprehensive services they deserve.

This month’s feature, “The Work Behind Back‑to‑School” by Dr. Brown, highlights the preparation, coordination, and commitment that define Head Start’s impact. We encourage you to take a moment to read and reflect as we begin another year of service.

Thank you for your leadership and dedication to Florida’s children and families.

There is something beautiful about walking into a Head Start program during pre-service.

The classrooms are quiet. Bulletin boards are ready. Books are neatly arranged. Crayons are still sharp. Lesson plans are organized. Teams are gathering. And the children have not yet arrived.

But the school year has already begun.

It begins with pre-service professional development, where teams come together to strengthen their practice, learn new skills and strategies, and prepare to move children and families forward.

It begins as teachers thoughtfully arrange classrooms where children will feel safe, welcomed, and valued.

It begins as family advocates organize family files, update community resource lists, and prepare for the first conversations they will have with families.

It begins as cooks review menus, organize kitchens, and prepare meals that will nourish growing bodies.

It begins as bus drivers inspect buses, review routes, and prepare to safely transport precious cargo.

It begins as health staff review records, organize screenings, and coordinate the services children will need throughout the year.

It begins as mental health professionals meet with teachers, family advocates, and leadership teams to discuss situations they may encounter, share strategies, and prepare together to support children, families, and staff throughout the year.

It begins as receptionists organize enrollment information, prepare welcome materials, and ensure every family receives a warm welcome from the moment they walk through the front door.

It begins as custodians prepare classrooms, hallways, playgrounds, and common spaces so children arrive in environments that are clean, safe, and ready for learning.

It begins as center directors welcome new team members, reconnect familiar faces, answer questions, solve problems, and ensure every member of the team has what they need before the year begins.

Back-to-school is one of the most celebrated seasons of the year. Store aisles fill with school supplies. Television commercials remind us that another school year is just around the corner. Communities hang welcome banners. Families take first-day pictures as children begin a new school year.

For Head Start teams, back-to-school began weeks ago. For some, it began with pre-service. For others, it never really ended because supporting children and families is a year-round commitment.

The welcoming classrooms. The smooth transitions. The organized routines. The smiling faces that greet children and families. Those moments are the result of weeks of planning, preparation, professional learning, collaboration, and commitment that happened long before the first child walked through the front door.

Thank you.

Thank you for the hidden labor that makes back-to-school possible.

As children and families transition into a new school year, they are stepping into the result of your preparation, your commitment, and your care.

The hidden labor isn’t often seen or celebrated, but it is essential.

Thank you for doing the work that doesn’t often get the thank you it deserves.

You make it all possible.

The Florida Head Start Association is committed to supporting Florida’s Head Start and Early Head Start programs by providing access to accessible, high-quality professional development opportunities. FHSA is excited to further this commitment and announce a partnership with First Day Learning to offer flexible training options at an exclusive discount for FHSA Members. These sessions are designed to fall in line with and supplement your programs pre-service training.

Training Schedule

• Supporting Autism - August 18, September 2 & September 17
  ​Practical strategies to improve safety, participation, and engagement for autistic children during key daily routines.
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• Improving Family Engagement - August 19 & September 3
  ​Practical strategies to build trust, strengthen family partnerships, and navigate hard conversations with confidence.
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• Teacher Success: You First - August 20 & September 9
  ​Science‑based strategies to support educator well‑being, reduce burnout, and strengthen daily habits that improve both personal and professional balance.
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• Classroom Environments - August 26 & September 15
  ​Research‑based strategies for designing learning spaces that support positive behavior, reduce challenges, and promote calm, focused engagement.
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• Teaching Replacement Behaviors - September 1 & September 16
  ​Strategies to analyze behavior, identify unmet needs, and teach children positive replacement skills that reduce challenging behaviors.

Use discount code FLA-HSA-186 to save $15!

Registration is open until September 7thfor the 2026 FHSA Annual Conference & Expo, happening October 27–29 in Orlando — leaving just 24 days left to register. This year’s theme, Stronger Together: Building Brighter Futures for Florida’s Families, is a reminder that our collective strength fuels the progress we make for children and families across the state.

These Registration Rates End September 7

• Member: $500
• Non‑Member: $625

This year’s conference delivers one of FHSA’s strongest professional development lineups yet, featuring 30 high-impact sessions that have been designed to meet the evolving needs of Florida’s Head Start and Early Head Start programs. Attendees will find practical, actionable learning across all major content areas, including:

• Challenging Behaviors – tools to identify and reduce challenging behaviors while increasing communication and building relationships.
• Leadership & Team Development – strategies to build strong teams and foster a collaborative environment in which all members of the Head Start ecosystem can thrive.
• Monitoring & Federal Reviews – promotes best practices to support clean audits, compliant reviews, and stronger grant management outcomes.
• Disabilities & Inclusion – introducing a NEW for 2026 Disabilities Roundtable Discussion!
• Mental Health & Wellness – topics ranging from staff wellness strategies to supporting families and young children
• Fiscal & Systems Management – focuses on strengthening financial foundations and grant success

No matter your length of service or your job title, this year’s conference offers the tools, inspiration, and connections to elevate your work and strengthen outcomes for children and families. Download the 2026 Annual Conference schedule.

FHSA has a special room rate of $149/per night++. Use the "Book Now" button below to reserve your room or call 1-800-222-TREE (8733) using the special rate code (AE2).

Parking: The overnight and event-day self-parking rate is discounted to $15+ tax a night.

The 2026 FHSA Annual Conference & Expo is fast approaching, and time is running out to secure sponsorship & exhibitor opportunities. Taking place October 27–29, 2026, in Orlando, this statewide gathering brings together Head Start and Early Head Start leaders, educators, family services professionals, and community partners for three days of learning, innovation, and connection.

As a sponsor or exhibitor, your organization gains:

• Direct access to decision‑makers from Head Start and Early Head Start programs statewide
• NEW FOR 2026 Exclusive 1:1 appointments with attendees — dedicated time to showcase solutions and build meaningful relationships
• High‑visibility branding before, during, and after the conference
• Opportunities to highlight products, services, and solutions that support children, families, and staff
• Engagement activities and sponsored opportunities that amplify your presence
• Year‑round visibility for higher‑tier sponsors

With promotions ramping up and attendee interest growing, now is the moment to secure your placement and maximize your exposure.

Act now and connect directly with Florida's Head Start leaders.

Information Memorandum: Addressing Vacant Slots Due to Chronic Absenteeism (ACF‑OHS‑IM‑26‑01)

On August 06, 2026, the Office of Head Start (OHS) released new guidance to support timely and consistent decision‑making around enrollment reductions. This Information Memorandum (IM) outlines the process that non‑Tribal grant recipients should follow when submitting Change in Scope requests to reduce funded enrollment due to chronic absenteeism.

OHS has seen a significant increase in these requests in recent years, resulting in longer review times. The IM establishes clearer submission standards and a more transparent review process to help programs maintain quality services while preserving Head Start Preschool (HSP) and Early Head Start (EHS) slots. It applies only to enrollment reduction requests and does not address HSP‑to‑EHS conversions; grantees are encouraged to consult OHS for current guidance on conversion submissions. Click here to read the IM in its entirety.

ACF Unveils Proposed Head Start Reforms to Expand Access and Empower Parents 

The Office of Head Start has released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), “Reducing Federal Burden for Head Start Programs.” The proposed rule includes several significant changes that would reshape program operations and federal oversight. Key components include:

• Reducing or eliminating certain long‑standing program standards to streamline federal requirements and shift more decision‑making to local programs.
• Modifying monitoring and oversight processes, including changes intended to reduce administrative burden for grantees.
• Revising requirements related to governance, reporting, and documentation, with the stated goal of increasing flexibility for programs.
• Adjusting expectations for program design and service delivery, including areas tied to family engagement, education, and health services.
• Introducing new provisions aimed at expanding parental choice and simplifying compliance, though the implications for program quality and consistency remain a central concern.

FHSA has significant concerns about the potential impact of these changes on the comprehensive standards that have guided Head Start for more than 60 years. FHSA will be submitting comments and encourages all stakeholders to do the same.

Members of Congress are back home for August recess, creating an important window for Head Start leaders to connect directly with lawmakers about the recently released Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), Reducing Federal Burden for Head Start Programs. This is an ideal time to share how the proposed changes could affect your program, workforce, and the families you serve.

Florida’s Head Start programs support more than 40,000 children and families each year through high‑quality early learning, nutrition, health services, and family engagement. When federal policy shifts or funding falls short, the impacts are felt immediately: families lose stability, employers lose workers, and communities lose essential early childhood infrastructure.

During the August recess, FHSA encourages programs to use this time to schedule meetings, invite lawmakers to visit your program, attend town hall meetings, and share specific examples of how the proposed rule could affect enrollment, staffing, service delivery, and program quality. Your firsthand experience is one of the most effective ways to help lawmakers understand what the NPRM means for Head Start in Florida.

Your voice plays a critical role in ensuring Head Start remains strong for the children and families who depend on it:

Email your Member of Congress  

Share how Head Start supports children, working parents, and Florida’s workforce. Urge them to protect and expand federal funding.

Invite your legislators to visit your program  

A recess visit is one of the most effective advocacy tools. Seeing Head Start in action makes its impact real and memorable.

Submit a Letter to the Editor  

Elevate Head Start’s value in your local newspaper. Highlight how your program drives school readiness, supports employment, and strengthens your community.

Use FHSA’s Advocacy Resources  

Access talking points, templates, and tools to help you connect with lawmakers and amplify your message.

Let’s keep Head Start on Congress’s agenda — and protect the essential services that uplift families, strengthen communities, and secure Florida’s future: our children.

Registration is now open for the National Head Start Association’s Parent and Family Engagement Conference, taking place December 14–17, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee. This annual gathering brings together thousands of family engagement professionals from across the country to deepen their practice, strengthen relationships, and elevate the essential role families play in early childhood success.

The conference is one of the few national events designed specifically around the relational nature of family engagement. Attendees have the opportunity to learn from peers facing similar challenges, reflect on effective strategies, and explore new approaches to supporting families. Through workshops, discussions, and collaborative learning, participants leave better equipped to engage families with intention and build stronger connections within their communities.

NHSA’s Parent and Family Engagement Conference continues to serve as a cornerstone for professional growth in the Head Start field, offering a space where practitioners can recharge, gain insight, and return home more attuned to the families they serve and the colleagues they work alongside.

The FHSA monthly newsletter aims to provide you with important information about the Association, upcoming events, and national industry updates. We encourage you to make sure your information is up-to-date so you don't miss out on important information. 

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Important Upcoming Events
FHSA EVENTS

FHSA Annual Conference & Expo - Registration Deadline
September 7, 2026
Orlando, FL
Click here for info

FHSA Professional Development Committee Meeting
August 19, 2026
Virtual
Click here for info

FHSA Directors Affiliate Group Monthly Check-In
September 1, 2026
Virtual
Click here for info

FHSA Professional Development Committee Meeting
September 16, 2026
Virtual
Click here for info

FHSA Annual Conference
October 27 - 29, 2026
Orlando, FL
Click here for info

 STATE TRAININGS or EVENTS

DCF Tampa Bay Area Refugee Meeting
August 18, 2026
Virtual
Click here for info

FACA Annual Training Conference
August 24-27, 2026
Orlando, FL
Click here for info

DCF Southwest Florida Taskforce Meeting
August 26, 2026
Virtual
Click here for info

2026 Children & Families Summit
September 9 - 11, 2026
Orlando, FL
Click here for info

NATIONAL TRAININGS or EVENTS

Supporting Autism Workshop: Behavior Planning to Improve Engagement
August 18, 2026
Virtual
Click here for info

The Curious Classroom: Free Resources that Spark Wonder at Home & School
August 19, 2026
Virtual
Click here for info

Improving Family Engagement Workshop: Creating Partnerships that Change Outcomes
August 19, 2026
Virtual
Click here for info

IECMHC in Action 2026: An ECHO Learning Series for Enhancing Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation
August 20, 2026
Virtual
Click here for info

Each year, the Florida Head Start Association honors individuals and organizations who exemplify the spirit, resilience, and innovation of Head Start and Early Head Start. This year’s honorees remind us why our mission matters — and how it continues to shape Florida’s future.

2026 FHSA Award Recipients

• Parent of the Year: Lucia Vasquez, Orange County Head Start
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• Administrator of the Year Award: Kathleen Sullivan, Children First, Inc.
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• Teacher of the Year: Lizett Varona-Rodriguez, Miami-Dade County Head Start/Early Head Start
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• Staff of the Year: Jamila Green, ECS4Kids
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• Humanitarian of the Year: Michael Suarez, Children First, Inc.
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• Achievement Award: Disability Services Coordinator, Dr. Rosally Bisbal Moreno, Orange County Head Start
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• Corporate Award: FIU NeighborhoodHELP, Miami-Dade County Head Start/ Early Head Start
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• Scholarship for HS/EHS Staff-Higher Ed: Arelisse Rodriquez Caban, Orange County Head Start

National Head Start Award State Finalists:

• Edward Zigler Award: Children First, Inc., in partnership with Sarasota County Schools – Cyesis Teen Parent Program
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• Vanessa Rich Leadership Award: Jennifer Walker, Monroe County School District Head Start
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• Aubrey Puckett Memorial Award: Colette Johnson Thomas, Orange County Head Start
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• Sargent Shriver: Orange County Head Start, in partnership with the Citizens’ Commission for Children

As we prepare to gather at the FHSA 2026 Annual Conference, we look forward to celebrating these extraordinary individuals during our Annual Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, October 28. These recognitions mark the first step in the awards process — each honoree will advance for regional consideration through the Region IV Head Start Association.

Congratulations to all our honorees. Your dedication fuels our movement and strengthens the foundation for generations to come.

FHSA and Transform Consulting Group hosted a webinar on August 6 to showcase the 2026 FHSA Dashboard and introduce the new Community Needs Page. Designed as both an advocacy tool and a practical resource for Head Start grantees, the dashboard highlights the critical need for Head Start services and provides easy access to data to support program planning and decision-making.

The dashboard includes more than 50 data points across six interactive pages, drawing from over 13 data sources to bring essential information together in one place. FHSA is proud to celebrate more than 15,000 views and encourages members to explore the dashboard’s robust filtering options — including county-level filters — to access data most relevant to their communities. If you missed the webinar you can watch it here and download the slides here.

The Department’s new provider communication initiative is underway, including quarterly newsletters, quarterly provider calls, and a statewide training series. Earlier this year, all providers — including licensed and exempt Head Start programs — received an invitation to join the MyFlorida Learn platform. Each program is allotted two user slots.

If your program has not yet activated its accounts, please check that your designated owner/director listed in the DCF system received the January platform invitation and the mid‑May communication notice. MyFlorida Learn is the primary hub for training and updates, and activating your access ensures you receive timely information throughout the year. If you are unable to access your login information submit a support ticket through the MyFlorida Learn platform.

The Early Head Start Parent Appreciation Event was held on May 16 at the Taft Community Center in Orlando to recognize and celebrate the outstanding work parents are doing with their children. The theme of the event, “To the world you are a parent, but to us you are a superhero,” highlighted the important role families play in their children’s growth and development.

Each county prepared educational activities for the children, while families also received valuable information from community organizations about available services and resources.

Zumbini provided entertainment through music and movement activities for the children, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere. Pizza Hut generously donated pizza for lunch. Parents were recognized with certificates, and each county honored a Parent of the Year.

The event also featured special appearances by Spider-Man and Elastigirl. A total of 168 participants attended the event, including 45 families, 145 individuals, and 23 staff members.

Florida’s Head Start community is full of stories -- stories of resilience, opportunity, and life-changing impact. FHSA is collecting stories year-round to celebrate Head Start and elevate the voices of families, staff, and alumni who make our programs extraordinary.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, leader, or graduate, your story can:

• Show policymakers why comprehensive services matter
• Highlight the dedication of Florida’s early childhood workforce
• Demonstrate Head Start’s long-term impact on families and children

Strengthen your skills in supporting infants, toddlers, and families with this interactive 15-hour training focused on infant mental health (IMH), trauma-informed care, attachment, resilience, and early childhood development. Designed for professionals working across early childhood, child welfare, health care, and family services, the course provides practical tools and strategies for understanding developmental needs, supporting parent-child relationships, addressing the impact of trauma, and practicing self-care. The training takes place Thursdays, August 13–September 10, 2026, from 9 a.m.–12 p.m. ET, with five 3-hour sessions. Registration is $450 per participant.

ECS4Kids has spent this summer conducting comprehensive health screenings, including vision, hearing, height, and weight assessments, to help ensure every child has the healthiest possible start. Additionally, ECS4Kids has partnered with the Lions Club and Florida KidSight Foundation. Using advanced, evidence-based vision screening technology, trained Lions Club volunteers help quickly and objectively detect potential vision concerns, even in the youngest learners.

Children First partnered with All Faiths Food Bank to give children an engaging bilingual presentation to learn how seeds grow into herbs and flowers. These young learners planted, explored, and learned to care for a garden.

The Agricultural and Labor Program, Inc (ALPI) hosted their Head Start and Early Head Start Parent Orientation and Health Fair on July 22^nd and 23^rd and welcomed over 350 children and families. Families had access to dental screenings, vision and hearing checks, height/weight and blood pressure screenings, speech/language evaluations, school supplies, and resources for children who may be on the spectrum

The Early Learning Coalition of Miami Dade/Monroe County attended the District 3 Community Resource Fair, connected with families about the resources they provide, and gave out free children’s books.

The Early Learning Coalition of Palm Beach County hosted in-person VPK registration events throughout the summer to help families enroll their children in VPK. They served more than 100 families and provided backpacks to each VPK child through a partnership with the Children’s Services Council.