Regional Office Closures and Their Impact on Head Start Programs

April 3, 2025

On Tuesday, April 1, 2025, we learned about the abrupt closure of the Office of Head Start (OHS) regional offices in Regions 1, 2, 5, 9, and 10, along with all affected federal staff being placed on leave of absence. While Region 4 has not been directly affected by these closures, we know the ripple effects will increase workload and strain our regional office and programs here in our community.

The Florida Head Start Association (FHSA) is deeply disappointed for the federal staff impacted by this decision and frustrated by the lack of foresight in an action that places children and families at risk. The closure of these regional offices is part of a broader initiative by the Administration to reduce federal staffing across the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), including the Administration for Children and Families (ACF).

Today, ACF released a statement sent to Head Start Grant Recipients about the restructuring in HHS as part of a federal workforce optimization initiative. This change of consolidating 10 regional offices into 5, closing offices in Boston, New York, Chicago, Seattle, and San Francisco, effective April 1, 2025, saving $1.8 billion annually. Grant recipients in affected regions are advised to use the Head Start Enterprise System (HSES) for communication regarding grant activities, with OHS staff assisting as needed. The restructuring will not affect critical services, and HHS remains committed to supporting Head Start recipients and their work with children and families.

The National Head Start Association (NHSA) has expressed profound concern, stating that the closures will have immediate and long-term impacts on operations and community-based providers' capacity to meet families' needs. As Region 4 programs brace for additional challenges due to the increased strain, we remain committed to maintaining the integrity of Head Start’s mission. Regional Offices of Head Start are indispensable partners in ensuring the successful daily operations of programs, providing essential guidance for staff recruitment, facilities management, and building partnerships that reflect community needs. Their insight and regulatory support have been central to our ability to serve children and families for nearly 60 years. 

This decision may present new challenges, but it also calls us to strengthen our resolve and continue working together to ensure Head Start remains a cornerstone of support for children and families in our communities. Now more than ever, we must act collectively. We call on Congress to investigate this action and take steps to ensure Head Start programs are equipped to continue their critical work.

Thank you for your unwavering dedication to the children and families you serve. Together, we will rise to meet these challenges and advocate for the resources and support our programs need to thrive.

In Partnership,