Senator Vanna Howard (D-Lowell) and Representative Tara Hong (D-Lowell) have joined fellow Massachusetts lawmakers in submitting Public Comments opposing the federal proposal to eliminate over 90% of the Head Start Program Performance Standards, the foundational regulations for Head Start.
In opposing the proposed rule changes, Senator Howard and Representative Hong join Senator Jacob Oliveira (D-Ludlow) and Representative Christopher Worrell (D-Boston), both of whom wrote letters with the support members in their respective chambers.
The proposed rule changes put forth by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on August 7 eliminates quality early learning standards; removes standards for critical wraparound services for children and families including health and mental health services; reduces access and eligibility for children from families experiencing homelessness, children with disabilities, and foster children; and threatens learning outcomes for dual language learners.
“Head Start has proven for decades that children, families, and communities thrive when we invest in them,” said Senator Vanna Howard (D-Lowell). “In Lowell and across the Commonwealth, this comprehensive program provides thousands of families with essential stability and gives students the foundation to succeed. We cannot stand by and watch. The proposed changes by Health and Human Services threaten to dismantle this vital lifeline, effectively locking out our most vulnerable children from the equitable future they urgently deserve.”
“Head Start is more than an early education program—it is a lifeline for children and working families. It gives our youngest children here in Lowell and across Massachusetts the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed, while connecting families with the support and resources they need,” said Representative Tara Hong (D-Lowell). “We must protect and strengthen Head Start because every child, no matter their family’s income or circumstances, deserves a strong start and a fair chance at a brighter future. This is not only about supporting families today—it is about investing in the next generation. When we give our children a strong foundation from the very beginning, we help build stronger families, stronger communities, and a stronger future for all of us.”
Massachusetts is home to 28 Head Start agencies serving more than 10,000 young children and their families, including five providers serving the First Middlesex District. Head Start combines early education with health, dental, nutrition, and family support services, including assistance for children whose needs may not be met through other programs.
The proposed rule by HHS would make substantial revisions to the Head Start Program Performance Standards. The changes identified by the legislators include removing or reducing federal requirements governing teacher-child ratios and group sizes, program operating hours, vision and hearing screenings, developmental screenings, staff qualifications and supports, services for children with disabilities and developmental delays, and practices supporting dual-language learners and their families.
The legislators are also concerned that while individual changes could have significant consequences, there could also be a cumulative impact on the comprehensive model that has defined Head Start for generations.
Research has consistently demonstrated that children who participate in Head Start’s quality programming enter kindergarten better prepared; show gains in literacy, math and social-emotional skills; and benefit for years to come through higher educational attainment, better health, and greater economic stability.
As part of their comments, the legislators also pointed to the Head Start Act, which requires the HHS Secretary to ensure revisions to program standards do not reduce the quality, scope, or types of services Head Start programs provide.
