08/14/2026
SIGNIFICANT CHANGES PROPOSED TO HEAD START
A proposed federal rule could significantly reshape Head Start nationwide, changing how these programs operate and serve children and families.
On August 6, the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), announced a proposed rule that would significantly scale back federal standards for Head Start.
FRCs don't operate in isolation. Many Head Start programs partner directly with local Family Resource Centers to connect families to housing, health, and basic-needs support, and FRCs in turn refer families to Head Start. Since both exist to support children and families, changes to Head Start could ultimately affect the families and children both are working to support.
📌 Take a moment to learn what's being proposed and what it could mean for Head Start in your community.
🗣️ Public comments are open through October 6, 2026
🔗 Submit a comment: https://www.regulations.gov/commenton/ACF-2026-0595-0001
As part of our review of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) “Reducing Federal Burden on Head Start Programs,” NHSA has published a high-level summary of the proposed changes. This proposal is not final and has no immediate impact on current program operations.
Learn about key changes, removals, additions, and more: https://nhsa.box.com/s/7dgwks9pxh8ik9wbumsjglz7ywjcf4k6
