Head Start is more than early childhood education—it’s a powerful force driving Florida’s workforce and strengthening communities where it matters most. 

In this clip, FHSA President Dr. Maite Riestra-Quintero, highlights the 11,760 employees across 860 centers in 64 counties who make Head Start’s impact possible in Florida. Your dedication transforms lives, ensuring children and families have the support they need to thrive.

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 share 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 40,000 children and families your Head Start programs serve across Florida.

This month, pinwheels will be seen all over Florida as a reminder that every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment. No one gets this more than Head Start. 

 As mandatory reporters, Early Head Start and Head Start programs have the highest safety protection standards in early care and education, including background checks, staff training, active supervision, ongoing monitoring, mandatory correction actions, and strict reporting requirements.

This commitment to child safety is at the heart of everything Head Start does. By fostering secure, supportive environments, these programs not only protect children from harm but also help lay the foundation for their lifelong success.

Beyond safety, Early Head Start and Head Start programs work hand-in-hand with families to empower and educate, building strong partnerships that ensure every child’s needs are met. Through comprehensive services—including health, nutrition, and education—Head Start supports the well-being of children and families alike, helping to prevent child abuse by addressing root causes like stress, lack of resources, and knowledge gaps. 

This April, as you see the pinwheels spinning across Florida, remember the crucial role we all play in safeguarding our children. Whether through direct involvement, advocacy, or support, let’s unite to raise awareness and ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow and thrive in a nurturing environment. 

Together, we can create a brighter future, one child at a time.

As we enter week five of the Legislative session, the pace is accelerating. Legislation yet to be introduced faces slim chances of crossing the finish line, while bills that have reached their second reading are more likely to advance. At FHSA, we’re closely tracking key bills that impact Florida’s children and families. 

Stay informed by viewing the FHSA Bill Tracker to see the latest updates on these important pieces of legislation.

Dr. Laurie Todd-Smith is the deputy assistant secretary for early childhood development at the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. She leads ACF's Office of Early Childhood Development, which oversees the Office of Head Start and the Office of Child Care.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced a significant restructuring initiative aligned with President Trump's Executive Order on government efficiency. This move will consolidate 10 regional offices into 5, closing locations in Boston, New York, Chicago, Seattle, and San Francisco, effective April 1, 2025. The restructuring aims to save taxpayers $1.8 billion annually while maintaining critical services.

To ensure continuity for Head Start grant recipients, the Office of Head Start (OHS) encourages communication using the Head Start Enterprise System (HSES). OHS staff remain dedicated to supporting grant recipients and ensuring a seamless transition. The OHS staff are monitoring these communications to address any immediate assistance needs.

As a dedicated Community Partner of Children’s Week Florida™, FHSA is excited to participate in this impactful event. Our members will attend the Advocacy Dinner & Awards, participate in Children’s Day activities at the Capitol, and meet with Legislators to support and champion the needs of Florida’s children.

Children’s Week Florida™, the largest event in the state celebrating its commitment to children, youth, and advocates, has grown from a single-day grassroots effort into a year-round initiative. It continues to strengthen families and communities across Florida. 

With various interactive events, educational activities, and outreach efforts, Children’s Week Florida™ highlights the diverse needs and successes of Florida’s children and youth while advocating for their well-being to state leaders. Thousands of participants, including legislators, public officials, nonprofit organizations, business leaders, educators, students, and families, gather annually at the State Capitol during the legislative session. Beyond this, the initiative extends to community-centered events held across the state throughout the year. 

This year’s Children’s Week Florida™ will occur from April 13-18, 2025, in Tallahassee, FL. Be sure to check out the complete list of events and join us in celebrating and supporting Florida’s children!

The recent USA Today article has caused NHSA to act swiftly on organizing an email campaign to Congressional members and is asking for your help! 

Eliminating funding for Head Start would be catastrophic to children, families, and communities. However, this is our moment to come together and fight for what matters. 

FHSA urges you to take two minutes to reach out to your Members of Congress to protect Head Start and oppose any effort to eliminate or disrupt this life-changing program that strengthens families and boosts local economies. 

Over 750,000 of our nation's most at-risk children and their families are at risk of losing a vital lifeline to stability and self-sufficiency. 

Don't miss the NHSA 52nd Annual Conference and Expo, happening in Columbus, Ohio, from May 19 - 22, 2025. This event promises engaging and impactful sessions designed to boost your program’s success. 

The conference offers practical strategies for elevating your Head Start community, from exploring the latest Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) to enhancing data literacy and empowering early childhood professionals.

Important Upcoming Events

FHSA EVENTS

FHSA Professional Development Opportunities
Virtual
Click here for info

FHSA Professional Development Committee
April 23, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

FHSA Directors Affiliate Group Monthly Check-in
May 6, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

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

 STATE TRAININGS or EVENTS

 Children's Week™ Florida
April 13 - 18, 2025
Tallahassee, Florida
Click here for info

Partnering with Local Educational Agencies
April 24, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

DCF Tampa Refugee Task Force Meeting
May 6, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

FACA 45th Annual Training Conference
May 13 - 17, 2025
Orlando, Florida
Click here for info

REGIONAL TRAININGS or EVENTS

RIVHSA Leadership Summit
June 10 - 13, 2025
Atlanta, Georgia
Click here for info

NATIONAL TRAININGS or EVENTS

Empowering Your Professional Development Planning Process
April 22, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

Preventing Childhood Lead Exposure from Water & Paint
April 23, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

Why Participate in the CACFP? 
April 24, 2025
Virtual
Click here for info

NHSA 52nd Annual Conference and Expo
May 19 - 22, 2025
Columbus, Ohio
Click here for info

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

Orange County Head Start Guest Readers Month began with enthusiasm this April! 

This annual event celebrates more than the joy of storytelling—it highlights the importance of early childhood literacy, fosters volunteerism, and raises awareness for the Head Start program.

Congressman Maxwell Frost (FL-10), a passionate advocate for Head Start, visited the Lila Mitchell Community Center. He delighted in the children's reading activities and took time to engage with the young learners. 

Another dedicated supporter, Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09) visited the McCoy Head Start Center. His visit included Storytime, where he connected with the children in a way that demonstrated his deep commitment to early childhood education. His presence underscored the vital role of community support in advancing our mission. 

The Hal Marston Head Start was honored to host Orange County Commissioner Mike Scott (District 6). Commissioner Scott brought a unique and impactful approach by incorporating Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) into his session. With the help of Turker Turtle, he introduced concepts such as classroom rules, sharing, and essential life skills. His engaging and thoughtful interaction with the children left a lasting impression. 

Guest Readers Month is off to an inspiring start, thanks to the enthusiasm and support of our congressional and county leaders! 

Congressman Maxwell Frost (FL-10)
visits students at the
Lila Mitchell Community Center 

Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09)
reading to students and answering
questions at the McCoy Head Start Center

Orange County Commissioner Mike Scott (District 6) incorporated Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) into his session at the Hal Marston Head Start Center, which introduced concepts such as classroom rules and essential life skills.

The Florida Association for Community Action (FACA) is thrilled to host its 45th Annual Training Conference at the Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek, taking place May 14–16, 2025. 

This event will unite community action professionals, policymakers, and advocates from across Florida to collaborate on innovative strategies that empower communities and uplift individuals facing economic challenges.

With an exciting lineup of keynote speakers, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities, attendees will dive into essential topics such as economic mobility, housing stability, workforce development, energy efficiency, and social services. The conference provides a space for exchanging ideas, gaining professional insights, and planning the way forward—ensuring Florida’s community action agencies are equipped to meet the ever-changing needs of the populations they serve.

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