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Whether Head Start, Early Head Start, child care or pre-K, the data and stories of those who enroll and attend is only a partial one. Millions of eligible children never gain access to the early childhood programs and early intervention proven to help them succeed in school and in life. Barriers to access abound, from a lack of family transportation, to confusing eligibility processes, a workforce shortage and beyond. 

• Learn about a new report and research from NHSA that updates our understanding of the top barriers to access to Head Start and Early Head Start for eligible families
• Explore other relevant frameworks and research from leading access to early childhood scholars
• Discuss the importance of family child care and other high-value policy solutions

We hope this session will serve as a call to action to federal and state advocates and policymakers to elevate and enact policies and funding focused on ensuring equitable access to early childhood education.

Speakers:

• Erin Hardy, Senior Research Scientist, NORC
• Myra Ingram, Executive Director, Region IV Head Start Association (invited)
• Kent Mitchell, Senior Director of State Affairs, NHSA (facilitator)
• Natalie Renew, Executive Director, Home Grown
• Kathyrn Tout, Vice-President for Early Childhood Research and Partnerships, ChildTrends