Proposed Elimination of Head Start Raises Alarms for Early Childhood Advocates
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
On April 16, 2025, The Washington Post published details from an internal draft budget document developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), offering the first comprehensive look at the administration’s proposed FY2026 budget request. The document, referred to as a “passback,” outlines significant reductions in discretionary spending across the agency—including a proposed elimination of the Head Start and Early Head Start programs.
Head Start and Early Head Start serve nearly 800,000 children and families nationwide, including 28,000 American Indian and Alaska Native children, offering comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and family engagement services. These programs are particularly vital in underserved communities, including Tribal Nations, where they provide culturally responsive, community-based supports for children and families.
What the Draft Budget Proposes
The 64-page HHS draft budget includes a proposal to eliminate funding for Head Start and Early Head Start.
The budget document reflects administrative priorities being prepared for formal submission to Congress.
The President’s Budget is a proposal—Congress ultimately determines funding through the appropriations process.
Recent Developments Affecting Head Start
In addition to the proposed elimination, the Head Start and child care community has already experienced significant disruptions in recent months:
Freezing of appropriated funds, delaying support for local programs.
Mass layoffs, including staff reductions at the national and regional level.
Closure of five regional ACF offices, which have historically provided oversight and technical assistance to Tribal and state programs (serving over 80% of Tribal governments across the US).
Administrative delays and uncertainty, affecting operations and planning for grantees across the country.
These disruptions have introduced growing instability into the Head Start system, prompting widespread concern about the ability to maintain services for children and families.
Impact on Tribal Programs
Across the country, Head Start programs serve approximately 28,000 American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) children—including those enrolled in Tribal Head Start and Early Head Start programs, as well as AIAN children served through non-Tribal grantees. These programs provide more than early education—they are deeply embedded in Indigenous communities, offering connections to language, culture, and tradition, while supporting family well-being and child development.
The potential elimination of these services would significantly impact the ability of Tribal communities to support Native children in early childhood—during the most foundational years of development.
The Issue in the News
National media outlets have reported on the implications of the draft budget:
Washington Post: Published the full internal budget document and outlined the scope of proposed program eliminations at HHS. Read: Washington Post
Associated Press: Reported that Head Start programs across the country face uncertainty, with some programs preparing for potential closure. Read: Associated Press
NICCA’s Commitment
The National Indian Child Care Association (NICCA) stands with Tribal Head Start programs and grantees across the country who are working to support children, families, and communities. We recognize the essential role these programs play in strengthening Native identity, improving child well-being, and advancing educational equity.
NICCA continues to monitor the federal budget process and advocate for the protection and full funding of Tribal early childhood programs.
📢 How to Stay Informed and Engaged
Reach out to your Members of Congress to share the impact of Head Start in your community. Download NICCA's Advocacy Handout that includes a template for messaging your Congressional Member.
Visit www.nicca.us for policy updates and advocacy tools.
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