Head Start and Early Head Start
Our research provides an in-depth look into Head Start and Early Head Start, addressing vital questions about quality, access, and enrollment. Policy makers and advocates can use our resources to make informed decisions.
How Can Research Inform Head Start Reform
In 2026, the Trump administration proposed sweeping rule changes for Head Start. Three new briefs from NIEER summarize what the research says about the proposed changes:
English-Only Instruction
The States(s) of Head Start and Early Head Start: Looking at Equity
NIEER's recent report offers a comprehensive state-by-state analysis of the Head Start and Early Head Start programs, emphasizing their equity dimensions. The study delves into the programs' performances over recent years, identifying areas where they excel and where challenges persist. Crucially, it highlights variations across states and disparities tied to child race and ethnicity. As the landscape of child poverty has evolved, so too has the reach and impact of these vital programs.
Explore the report that started it all - State(s) of Head Start
NIEER's "State(s) of Head Start" report offers an in-depth state-by-state analysis of the Head Start program for the 2014-2015 year, with insights stretching back to 2006-2007. Despite its national, federally funded status, the study unveils significant state disparities in areas like access, funding, and quality. The findings accentuate the need for enhanced collaboration between Head Start and regional governmental entities to optimize early learning programs. The report ultimately advocates for a national commission to address these disparities and ensure equitable opportunities for all eligible children.
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