Executive Director's Blog

Head Start Works for Ohio — And We’re Showing Up to Prove It

The National Head Start Association’s Winter Leadership Institute came at an important time for our field.

Across the country — and here in Ohio — programs are managing workforce shortages, rising costs, and uncertainty about federal funding. Those aren’t abstract policy debates. They show up every day in our classrooms, our staffing plans, and the families who depend on us.

That reality shaped every conversation in Washington.

Being with other state Association leaders was a good reminder of what makes Head Start strong. This has always been a practical, roll-up-your-sleeves network. We share what’s working, learn from one another, and help each other solve problems. That steady, peer-to-peer leadership is how we keep moving forward, especially when conditions are tough.

What we heard consistently was simple: Head Start works.

It helps parents stay in the workforce. It gives children a strong start in school. And in many communities, it’s the only affordable, reliable option families have.

Seeing Parent Advocates meet directly with policymakers was a highlight for me. One mom shared how Head Start made it possible for her to reenter the workforce, knowing her child was safe, learning, and supported. Stories like that bring the work to life more clearly than any report ever could.

We also came prepared with the facts. Head Start programs are foundational in their communities — they are employers, early learning providers, and trusted anchors in every Ohio county. When we talk about funding or staffing, we’re talking about real classrooms, real jobs, and real families we know by name.

That’s why showing up consistently matters. Advocacy isn’t one trip or one meeting. It’s a steady relationship-building and clear, local voices helping policymakers understand what’s at stake.

I’m proud of how Ohio shows up in these spaces. Our directors, staff, and parents speak with credibility because they live this work every day.

As we move forward, our focus is simple: keep elevating local leaders and parent voices, keep sharing our results, and keep reminding and showing decision-makers why it’s so important to protect and strengthen Head Start.

Because we see it every day.

Head Start works for Ohio — and we will continue to boldly show up to make sure it stays strong for the families and communities that depend on it.