In 61 years, Head Start has faced many hurdles. Our Head Start families and alumni, friends and partners, have stood up each time for this amazing program and let everyone know how Head Start has made a difference for children and families. On August 7, 2026, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) published a “Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), Reducing Federal Burden for Head Start Programs.” The proposed rule would eliminate many of the existing quality standards that have long distinguished Head Start as a national model for early childhood services. Head Start program performance standards are the backbone of everything we do and ensure that each child receives the same high-quality services no matter which program they attend.

October is Head Start Awareness Month. KHSA encourages parents, alumni, educators, community members, and all Head Start champions to bring awareness of this latest hurdle to the continuation of Head Start with all of its quality standards intact. Let’s make everyone aware of the importance of Head Start to over 6,200 children in Kansas. Make your voices heard and protect Head Start. The public comment period closes October 6.

Submit your comments here: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/08/07/2026-16134/reducing-federal-burden-for-head-start-programs