Kansas Head Start Association Statement on Continued Federal Shutdown
Lawrence, Kansas — During the federal shutdown, all Head Start programs in Kansas continue to operate as normal, providing critical high-quality early education and social services to children in low-income households. The Kansas Head Start Association is concerned, however, about potential disruptions in critical services and supports for Head Start children and families in our state and across the nation as the shutdown continues.
Head Start’s goal is to prepare young children for school. Most families with children enrolled in Head Start are working and rely on Head Start for child care. Federal Head Start funding is critical for the well-being of nearly 6,300 young Kansans and their families.
Over $90 million in federal Head Start funding flowed into Kansas’s economy in FY2025 – directly to the local programs who provide these services in their communities.
Nearly 2,500 individuals work in Head Start program in Kansas and are an integral part of the state’s early childhood workforce.
Over 4,900 parents are able to work, go to school, or participate in job training as a result of Head Start support.
“We are celebrating 60 years of Head Start this year. Disruptions to Head Start funding threaten the ability of programs to provide services that are vital to the well-being of our most vulnerable children and their families,” says Heather Schrotberger, executive director of the Kansas Head Start Association.
Nationwide, the Head Start program relies on federal funds which are appropriated by Congress annually. The Office of Head Start is not able to issue funding until Congress passes a spending bill. Approximately 130 Head Start programs collectively serving over 56,000 children are due to receive Head Start grants on November 1st.
Kansans can reach out to their members of Congress HERE.
For more information contact: hschrotberger@ksheadstart.org, 785-856-3132