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Central Pa. Head Start programs could face major changes under federal proposal

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Central Pennsylvania Head Start programs could see larger classes, shorter operating hours and fewer requirements for working with families under sweeping changes proposed by the Trump administration.

The proposal would give states greater control over Head Start while reducing federal regulations for the program, which has provided early childhood education and other services to low-income families for more than 60 years.

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Among the proposed changes are allowing states to set child-to-teacher ratios, reducing required operating hours, changing English-language instruction requirements and eliminating some family engagement requirements. Programs would also be limited to spending 5% of their funding on administrative costs, down from the current 15%.

A required 60-day public comment period began Aug. 6.

The administration says reducing regulations and costs could allow Head Start, which currently serves about 700,000 children nationwide, to reach an additional 200,000 children.

Some educators and advocates, however, worry the changes could weaken Head Start’s emphasis on education and school readiness.

Capital Area Head Start, which served more than 1,000 children during the past year, currently limits classes to 18 children with two teachers. Executive Director Shawnee Hooper told WITF that the organization intends to continue using class sizes and staffing levels it considers best for children even if federal rules allow larger classes.

Head Start provides more than preschool instruction. Programs also offer health screenings, nutrition education, disability services and mental health support while helping families connect with housing, education and employment resources.

Some of those family engagement requirements could be eliminated under the proposal.

The changes also come as Head Start programs struggle to recruit and retain teachers. Advocates say larger classes combined with sharply reduced administrative spending could add to those challenges.

For families, the debate centers on whether Head Start should primarily provide child care or continue its broader educational and family-support mission.

The proposed rules have not yet taken effect. The public comment process will provide programs, parents, and other interested parties an opportunity to respond before the federal government moves toward final regulations.

Source: WITF

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