Head Start transforms communities by preparing our most vulnerable children for success while enabling parents to contribute to our economy. 

The proof is in the numbers:

• Head Start children are 2.7% more likely to finish high school
• Head Start children are 8.5% more likely to enroll in college
• Head Start children are 39% more likely to finish college

In this clip, Kathleen Sullivan, VP of Programs for Head Start & Early Head Start with Children First, highlights how Head Start programs drive academic gains for their program graduates.  

Watch her brief message, then see the full documentary to hear more stories of why Head Start works.

Join us in celebrating Head Start's profound impact on our state. Over the next several months, we will be sharing short clips like this on our social channels that give first-hand experience of why Head Start works. 

Help us raise our collective voice for Florida’s children, families, and educators. Share these Head Start advocacy messages across your social media, newsletters, and community networks today — because every like, share, and comment brings us closer to the support our programs deserve. 

Be sure to follow and engage with FHSA on:

• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FLHSA/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/flaheadstart/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/florida-head-start-association-inc
• X - https://twitter.com/FlaHeadStart

At FHSA, we are committed to continuing this vital work to help make a difference in the lives of 45,000 children and families your Head Start programs serve across Florida.

EarlyEd.ai and EarlyEdPro.ai, founded by former Head Start director Mary Grace Romo, offer AI-powered tools and expert support for Head Start professionals. EarlyEd.ai streamlines documentation and decision-making, while EarlyEdPro.ai provides consulting, grant writing, and professional development. 

Now enrolling: “Applied AI for Early Ed Leaders,” a 4-week live training series starting June 25, designed to help educators harness AI for reporting, efficiency, and family engagement.

Founded in 1964, James Moore & Co. is a business consulting and advisory firm that provides tax, assurance, outsourced accounting, technology solutions, human resources, business advisory, data analytics, and wealth management services. While our clients span several industries, we hold the nonprofit sector (and in particular, Head Start organizations) close to our heart. We’ve served over 300 nonprofits throughout Florida and nationwide, giving us extensive expertise in nonprofit needs like Uniform Guidance, grant management, functional expense allocation planning, audit preparation, and much more. 

Total Testing Education offers flexible, self-paced college-level courses to help students complete their degrees faster while balancing work, family, and other commitments. With no fixed start dates or monthly limits, our budget-friendly courses provide exceptional value and are credit-eligible at participating partner institutions. We proudly partner with Woodmont College and American College of Education to offer pathways to a BS in Education, empowering students with affordable, high-quality learning opportunities that support their career goals in early childhood education.

We're already gearing up for another impactful and inspiring FHSA Annual Conference & Expo! This signature event brings together early childhood professionals, advocates, and partners from across Florida to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and strengthen the future of Head Start. 

Stay tuned—the official Call for Presentations, Exhibitor Opportunities, and Sponsor Packages will be announced soon. Whether you’re looking to share innovative practices, showcase your organization, or support Head Start’s mission, there will be plenty of ways to get involved. 

Now’s the perfect time to start thinking about how you or your organization can be part of this powerful gathering. Let’s make 2025 our most energizing conference yet!

Last month, Wanda Minick, Executive Director of FHSA, had the privilege of joining esteemed leaders on the Florida Association of Community Action's legislative panel, Community Action at a Crossroads: Policy Pathways for Today and Tomorrow, Alongside Arlene Dobison, Chief Executive Officer at The Agricultural and Labor Program, Inc.; James Green, Ph.D., Director of Palm Beach County Community Services Department; Allison Ma’luf, Esq., Executive Director & General Counsel of CAPLAW; Katrina Metzler, Executive Director of NEUAC; and Moderator Amy Yount, President and CEO of Step Up Suncoast, Inc., as we engaged in a powerful exchange on policy challenges, innovative community-led solutions, and strategies for driving equitable and sustainable change. 

This session provided a vital space to discuss the current policy landscape and explore actionable steps for educating local, state, and federal policymakers. What stood out most was the shared commitment among panelists to ensuring that policies not only support communities but empower them to thrive. The discussion reinforced that advocacy is not just about responding to challenges—it’s about shaping a future where balance and opportunity are at the forefront. 

One of the most compelling takeaways was the emphasis on local action. While national policies set the framework, true impact happens when communities mobilize, share their stories, and push for meaningful change. As we move forward, our collective voice remains critical in advocating for sustainable solutions that reflect the needs of those we serve. 

Let’s continue these conversations and champion the policies that strengthen families, elevate programs, and build a future rooted in opportunity.

The upcoming Congressional Recesses—June 30 to July 7 and August 4-29—present a prime opportunity to connect with your elected officials. During these periods, both House Members and Senators return to their districts, holding meetings, touring projects, and engaging with their communities. 

Now is the time to secure a spot on their schedules or take the initiative by organizing your own event, town hall, or open house. These interactions are invaluable in showcasing the profound impact of Head Start and leaving a lasting impression on lawmakers.

Host a Congressional Visit to Strengthen Advocacy

Inviting members of Congress to your program is one of the most effective ways to demonstrate Head Start’s role in providing comprehensive, community-based early education and wraparound services. A first-hand experience allows legislators to see the program in action, making its benefits tangible. It also presents an opportunity for media coverage and social engagement—helping amplify your program’s story while reinforcing its significance at the policy level.

Engage in Town Hall Discussions

Town halls offer a dynamic platform for direct conversations with your representatives. They create space for constructive dialogue, ensuring that policymakers understand both the successes and challenges facing early childhood education in your community. 

By taking action during congressional recesses, you can directly influence policy decisions and strengthen support for Head Start. Visit FHSA’s advocacy resource webpage, where you’ll find toolkits designed to equip parents, directors, teachers, and staff with tailored talking points. Let's seize this opportunity to advocate, educate, and inspire change.

The reconciliation bill recently passed by the U.S. House of Representatives proposes sweeping cuts to essential programs that millions of Floridians rely on—most notably, Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Over the next nine years, the bill would slash $1 trillion from these lifeline services, while extending $7.7 trillion in tax cuts that disproportionately benefit the wealthiest households. 

The Florida Policy Institute has outlined four key ways this legislation could impact families across our state:

1. Floridians could see a drastic increase in health care premiums under the bill.

2. The bill would extend the federal debt and disproportionately benefit wealthy households.

‍3. Under the bill, Florida would lose crucial provider tax dollars — a cornerstone of Florida’s hospital and nursing home funding.

‍4. Florida could lose $1.6 billion in federal dollars for food assistance if the House’s proposed SNAP cut is enacted.

As this proposal advances in Congress, it’s critical that we raise awareness and advocate for policies that protect—not undermine—the well-being of Florida’s families.

Head Start families bring invaluable strengths, insights, and lived experiences to our programs—and many go on to become dedicated staff who reflect the communities we serve. When parents move from participants to professionals, they build authentic connections with current families and become powerful advocates for Head Start’s mission. 

A new resource spotlights the key milestones that led parents into Head Start careers, and it shares strategies—directly recommended by those parents—for supporting their journey from involvement to employment. These insights offer programs practical guidance for creating intentional pathways that honor families' aspirations and foster long-term success.

As outlined in the Head Start Program Performance Standards [45 CFR §1302.90(b)(6)], programs are required to consider current and former parents for employment. This isn’t just compliance—it’s a core part of Head Start’s two-generation approach to breaking the cycle of poverty by building family well-being through economic mobility. 

Explore how your program can strengthen these pathways, uplift parent voices, and open doors to employment that benefit not only the individual, but the entire Head Start community.

We’re excited to welcome you to the One Goal: Building the Future Together Conference, proudly sponsored by FHSA! This year marks 38 years of empowering early education and care providers, and we hope you’ll join us July 16-18 at the Hilton Tampa Downtown Hotel for an inspiring experience. 

With 87 sessions packed with actionable strategies and insights, this conference is designed to support your work with children and families every day. 

Registration is only $225—made possible by generous sponsors like FHSA, who are committed to keeping costs low so everyone can benefit. 

Please note that the Hilton Tampa Downtown is fully booked, but accommodations are available at Hyatt Place and Hyatt House, both offering conference-rate pricing and a complimentary hot breakfast buffet -- just a 3-minute walk from the venue.

In March 2025, Head Start Preschool recipients received an important update from the Payment Management System (PMS) regarding a new processing step designed to enhance transparency and accountability in federal funding. The notice outlined steps for implementing the requirements of Executive Order 14222, part of the President’s Department of Government Efficiency Cost-Effective Initiative. 

This webinar provided essential guidance on submitting a complete payment justification request to support grantees in navigating this change. The Office of Head Start leadership shared insights on submission timelines and addressed key questions related to the Defend the Spend notice. Be sure to watch for practical tips and expert advice!

Last month, the Office of Head Start released an Information Memorandum on Expanding Educational Freedoms and Parent Choice in Head Start. The guidance encourages Head Start programs to partner with local early care and education providers to expand parental choice and parental involvement in Head Start. The guidance broadly highlights current requirements in Head Start standards on parent engagement and community partnerships and does not change requirements for programs. The Office of Child Care issued similar guidance.

Head Start has always been about giving children a strong start in life. When it launched in 1965, it began as an 8-week summer program designed to set young learners on a path to success. Now, sixty years later, we celebrate that legacy with Project (Stand for) Head Start, a summer initiative calling on programs nationwide to take action, raise their voices, and build momentum to ensure Head Start remains strong for future generations. 

The National Head Start Association is leading this effort with eight weeks of action (June 16- August 8) to keep Head Start visible all summer.

Each week will feature a theme with suggested activities for individuals and programs to keep the momentum going.

• Week 1: June 15 - 21, 2025, Champion Head Start’s Impact on Your Local Community- Share this link to this national letter with organizations, businesses, and leaders urging Congress to support this vital program before the Tuesday, July 15 deadline. 
• Week 2: June 22 - 29, 2025, Tell Your Story, Share Your Successes
• Week 3: June 30 - July 5, 2025, Celebrate Head Start and America on the 4th of July
• Week 4: July 6 - 12, 2025, Activate Staff: Build a Culture of Advocacy
• Week 5: July 13 - 19, 2025, Promote Healthy Eating with Head Start
• Week 6: July 20 - 26, 2025, Connect with Your Member of Congress: Make Head Start Heard
• Week 8: August 3 - 9, 2025, Join National Night Out: Head Start Stands for Safe, Healthy Communities

The National Head Start Association (NHSA) issued the following statement in response to the release of the president’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget request, which proposes level funding for Head Start and Early Head Start: 

“While we appreciate the administration’s continued recognition of the critical role Head Start plays in being a launchpad to the success for hundreds of thousands of children and families across America, level funding in today’s economic climate would constrain a program that consistently delivers long-term results for children, communities, and the country for the last 60 years. 

Head Start programs are facing significant pressures: rising costs, workforce shortages, and increasing demand for comprehensive early childhood services. Maintaining funding for a third consecutive year — without accounting for inflation, workforce competition, or increased needs — is effectively a deep cut. It means programs will be forced to make impossible choices, including reducing enrollment, cutting hours, or laying off staff.

Important Upcoming Events

FHSA EVENTS

FHSA Professional Development Opportunities
Virtual
Click here for info

FHSA Directors Affiliate Group Monthly Check-in
July 1, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

FHSA Board of Directors Meeting
July 15, 2025
Virtual Meeting
Click here for info

2025 FHSA Annual Conference & Expo
October 28 - 30, 2025
Orlando, Florida
Click here for info

STATE TRAININGS or EVENTS

DCF Jacksonville Area Refugee Task Force
July 9, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

One Goal Summer Conference
July 16 - 18, 2025
Tampa, Florida
Click here for info

2025 Prevention Convention
August 21 - 22, 2025
Orlando, Florida
Click here for info

REGIONAL TRAININGS or EVENTS

RIVHSA Early Head Start Institute
September 23 - 26, 2025
Atlanta, Georgia
Click here for info

 NATIONAL TRAININGS or EVENTS

 Improving Educational Freedom for Young Children and Families
June 18, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

Using Your Voice: Advocacy for Head Start Grantees
June 18, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

Federal Budget Update on Child and Youth Homelessness 
June 18, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

Responding to Federal Priorities
June 26, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

Front Porch: Imaginative Play as a Window into the Developing Mind
June 26, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

Quality Foundations for Early Learning Virtual Conference
June 29 - 30, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

NCAP's 2025 Annual Convention
August 27 - 29, 2025
Detroit, Michigan
Click here for info

Is there a dedicated educator, administrator, community partner, or Head Start parent you believe deserves recognition? 

Now is the time to celebrate their commitment! Nominations are open until June 30, 2025, and winners will be honored at the FHSA Annual Conference & Expo—a moment to recognize their contributions among peers and leaders in early childhood education.

The Children’s Forum is accepting applications for the 2025–26 Florida Early Childhood Advocacy Fellowship (FECAF)—a year-long program equipping early childhood professionals to influence policy at every level. 

Fellows gain expert training, hands-on experience, and valuable connections to become stronger advocates for young children and families.

Deadline extended to Thursday, June 19!

Please share with others passionate about early childhood education and policy.

The Florida Head Start Association dashboard is a practical tool for advocacy, created to help inform policymakers and other state leaders about the critical role Head Start programs play in Florida—and the unmet need for additional funding. 

We encourage all programs to take a moment to review their data on the dashboard to ensure its accuracy. Up-to-date and accurate information strengthens our collective voice and ensures your program is represented correctly in statewide advocacy efforts.

Sonya Hill
Orange County Head Start

This year, the Head Start program proudly celebrates its enduring legacy of empowering children and families with the foundational support they need to build brighter futures. In a recent feature by K-12 Dive, three inspiring women shared their personal journeys, highlighting how Head Start paved the way for their success. 

FHSA was especially thrilled to see Florida’s Sonya Hill, Director of the Orange County Head Start program, featured in the article. Reflecting on the program’s profound impact, Sonya shared, “I’m just thinking this is a program that has impacted so many people across the United States, but I know firsthand that Head Start works.” 

Her story is a testament to Head Start's transformative power in shaping lives and strengthening communities.

Wanda Minick, Executive Director of FHSA, recently visited the Brentwood Head Start program in Jacksonville to take part in a special Harvest Day event. The celebration was a key moment for the Florida Institute of Education at the University of North Florida’s Family Garden and Engagement program, which fosters hands-on learning experiences for young children and their families.

During her visit, Minick witnessed the excitement of children as they gathered fresh produce, reinforcing the importance of early childhood education that connects learning to real-world experiences. The Family Garden and Engagement program integrates science, nutrition, and environmental stewardship into Head Start curriculum, giving children and families the opportunity to engage in sustainable gardening while building stronger community connections. 

Minick praised the program for its impact on young learners, noting that initiatives like these help shape a more comprehensive and enriching educational experience. “This is exactly the kind of hands-on engagement that strengthens the mission of Head Start—providing children with opportunities to explore, discover, and connect with the world around them,” Minick shared during her visit. 

The Brentwood Head Start program continues to be a model for innovative learning, and its partnership with the University of North Florida demonstrates the power of collaboration in advancing early childhood education. Through efforts like Harvest Day, children are not only gaining valuable knowledge but are also learning the significance of healthy eating and environmental responsibility—lessons that will stay with them far beyond the classroom.

Students at Brentwood learn about
planting and harvesting vegetables.

Students at Brentwood have a
first-hand experience harvesting food.

Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) celebrates Dr. Marie Mason, Vice President of Operations for LSF Head Start, who has been named one of Tampa Bay Business Journal's 2024 Business Woman of the Year honorees. During the event, attendees watched a moving video featuring Dr. Mason, where she shared how she honors her success by giving back to others and investing in the people she works with and serves. Her commitment to strengthening families and communities truly reflects the values LSF champions across all its programs. 

“Dr. Mason exemplifies leadership, compassion, and service. Her dedication to empowering others is nothing short of inspiring,” said an LSF representative. “This recognition is a testament to her ongoing impact on the lives of children, families, and colleagues alike.” 

LSF proudly celebrates the strong women within its organization, and Dr. Mason is a shining example of the success and influence they bring to their work daily. Congratulations to Dr. Marie Mason on this well-deserved recognition!

Orange County Head Start and VyStar Credit Union were honored with the National Head Start Association’s Shriver Excellence in Community Service Award at the NHSA Annual Conference in Columbus, Ohio. 

Since 2019, VyStar Credit Union has partnered with Orange County Head Start to make financial literacy more accessible for families and staff. 

Through this collaboration, VyStar has empowered Head Start communities by providing resources that support financial wellness. Their commitment includes over 700 volunteer hours, featuring initiatives such as:

• Financial Fridays, offering workshops to enhance financial literacy
• Super Readers Book Drive, donating 4,500 books to 20 Head Start locations across nine Florida counties
• Food box deliveries to families in need

This recognition highlights the profound impact of community partnerships in advancing Head Start’s mission. Congratulations to Orange County Head Start and VyStar Credit Union for their dedication to empowering families through education and service!

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