On Nov. 20, 2023, the Office of Head Start (OHS) published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal Register, Supporting the Head Start Workforce and Consistent Quality Programming. Proposed changes to the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) described in the NPRM would ensure fair compensation is a key component of high-quality early care and education. These proposed changes, if enacted, will stabilize the Head Start workforce and improve the quality of the comprehensive services that Head Start families count on. The HSPPS are the foundation on which programs design and deliver consistent, high-quality programming across a variety of Head Start services.
This page includes summaries of the proposed changes to the HSPPS, clarifying and promotional materials, and resources on how to provide feedback through the Federal Register. The current HSPPS remain in effect until a final rule is published.
Federal Register Notice
Read the full NPRM in the Federal Register. OHS will consider public comments and questions when making decisions for the final rule. To provide feedback, follow the "Submit a formal comment" instructions. Comments are accepted for 60 days after NPRM publication. The closing date is Jan. 19, 2024.
Review tips on how to navigate the Federal Register website, draft effective comments, and submit comments for consideration.
ACF-PI-OHS-23-04 Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on Supporting the Head Start Workforce and Consistent Quality Programming – Public Comment Period
This Program Instruction summarizes the NPRM and describes the comment process. It outlines proposed changes to the HSPPS in three main areas: workforce supports, mental health, and other quality improvements.
Informational Webinar Series
Register now to hear from OHS leadership and staff about the proposed changes in the NPRM. The first webinar provides a general overview and the second webinar takes a deeper dive into the proposed changes to support the Head Start workforce.
Addressing Questions on the NPRM
Listen as OHS leadership answers FAQs about the latest NPRM and learn how you can submit feedback.
Proposed Changes to the HSPPS
This document illustrates where changes would be made to the current HSPPS.
Fact Sheet
Read a concise overview of the proposed changes in the NPRM.
Detailed Summary of Proposed Changes
Review detailed summaries of proposed changes organized by topic.
Social Messages from Director Garvin
Share short videos and social media messages from OHS Director Khari M. Garvin that encourage parents and staff to comment on the proposed HSPPS.
Press Release
Read and share this press release with Head Start stakeholders to understand and solicit comments for the NPRM.
« Go to Updates to the Head Start Program Performance Standards
Last Updated: August 21, 2024