A weekly communication source for keeping you updated on the latest local/state/federal HS/EHS information |
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ILLINOIS ADVOCATES for HEAD START & EARLY HEAD START TAKE ACTION ON THE CAPITAL HILL |
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As the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) federal funding "pause and freeze" unfolded, Illinois Head Start and Early Head Start leaders were coincidentally attending the National Head Start Association Leadership Institute.
These passionate advocates are meeting with policymakers to emphasize the urgent need for continued investment in Head Start and Early Head Start. Their voices are critical in ensuring that Head Start programs remain strong and fully funded for the children and families who rely on them while also highlighting the powerful impact of Head Start in communities across Illinois. |
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In an attempt to review all Federal spending, President Trump's administration directed the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on Tuesday to start the process of pausing and freezing federal funds, grants, and loans. With minimal guidance or explanation, federal programs across the nation was in a frenzy to try to understand what this meant for their programs and services. Including Head Start. Clarity was issued in the afternoon when OMB released guidance citing, "Funds for small businesses, farmers, Pell grants, Head Start, rental assistance, and other similar programs will not be paused." As of 5pm Tuesday night, all Head Start programs were reported to be able to access the Payment Management System to draw down their funds and continue providing payroll to staff and services to their families and children.
Such confusion and chaos may have held our attention for a moment but Illinois Head Start programs did not lose sight of the impactful role they play in their community and families. And so long as there are families and children to serve, the dedicated Head Start staff will continue to provide support and resources with open arms and big hearts. |
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60 YEARS of BIPARTISAN PRESIDENTIAL SUPPORT FOR HEAD START |
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We at IHSA encourage you to be civically engaged, and invite you to take a look at the Presidential History of Head Start over the years. This article highlights the history of presidential commitment to Head Start/Early Head Start. Head Start’s growth and success over six decades and 11 Administrations is a remarkable show of bipartisan support. This is also true of Congress. |
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CLOSING KEYNOTE SPEAKER: RACHEL GIANNINI |
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We Welcome Rachel Giannini back to the Head Start Community! Rachel is an award-winning early childhood advocate, educator, and storyteller whose dynamic presentations have inspired audiences around the globe.
Rachel is also a Head Start Alum and as an adult, was a Head Start teacher!
You may recognize Rachel from her role as a featured teacher in the Emmy-nominated documentary series, No Small Matter, or from her viral online videos championing the importance of early education. With a background in theater and a deep commitment to child development, Rachel uses her platform to empower educators, celebrate the joy of teaching, and advocate for systemic change in early learning.
Don't miss this unforgettable opportunity to close out the conference on a high note with Rachel's inspiring message. Together, we'll reflect on the incredible impact of Head Start programs and reimagine what's possible for our youngest learners. |
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Late Registration kicks in this Friday so Register Today! And be part of this special celebration as we honor Head Start’s history, celebrate its success, and look forward to the future! |
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Room Block ends this Friday so Reserve Your Room Today! President Abraham Lincoln Hotel - DoubleTree by Hilton, Springfield Hotels, 701 E Adams Street.
Price is subject to change once the room block is sold out. |
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Parenting While Black: Nurturing Legacy, Love, & Liberation |
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Join Brazelton Touchpoints Center for Parenting While Black: Nurturing Legacy, Love, and Liberation.
This is a FREE dynamic four-part virtual conversation series by, for, and among Black parents. This is a welcoming space for sharing ideas, stories, and ways of knowing and being. |
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IMMIGRATION RESOURCE PAGE |
IHSA recently launched an Immigration Resources page with critical information, resources, and support to prepare your Head Start families AND staff.
Because migrant families are eligible for the Head Start programs, Head Start centers could be a target for immigration enforcement, especially during drop-off/pick-up times. What are your HS/EHS program's policies and protocols if ICE was to make a visit to your center &/ to prepare your families? Share tips, ideas, suggestions, insights, experiences with Linda at lwang@ilheadstart.org. This section will be updated to share with you and others in the HS/EHS community. |
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Share your Head Start Impact Story! Click button to share. |
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IHSA ANNUAL CONFERENCE: Sponsorship Opportunities still available!
Now welcoming Vendors for Sponsorships and Exhibit Hall. View opportunities HERE. |
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| Share 'The Scoop' with your team! |
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