Explore resources supporting vaccination and mask requirements.
Requiring all Head Start staff, some contractors, and volunteers to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and universal masking for all individuals 2 years of age and older is critical as we work together to move toward fully in-person comprehensive services by providing healthy and safe environments for everyone. Explore how the requirements announced in the Interim Final Rule with Comment Period (IFC) will help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Check out the FAQs to learn more about mask and vaccine requirement for Head Start programs.
Federal Register Notice on Vaccine and Masking Requirements
The IFC adds new provisions to the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in Head Start programs.
Preamble to the Final Rule on Vaccine and Mask Requirements
Read this Preamble to the IFC for more details about the research and data that supported our decisions.
Revised Head Start Program Performance Standards on Staff Vaccination and Universal Masking
Effective Nov. 30, 2021, the Head Start Program Performance Standards will reflect staff vaccination and universal masking requirements, as shown in the PDF.
Summary of Vaccine and Mask Requirements to Mitigate the Spread of COVID-19 in Head Start Programs
This fact sheet describes the requirements announced in the IFC and how they will help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. It includes background information and outlines exemptions, timelines, and justifications for masking and vaccination in Head Start programs.
Universal Masking and COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement FAQs
Find answers to common questions about the mask and vaccine requirements for Head Start programs. Learn more about the implementation details and exemptions announced in the IFC.
Webinar: New Standards for Vaccination and Masking to Reduce Transmission of COVID-19
Watch Office of Head Start leadership discuss new HSPPS for masking and COVID-19 vaccination requirements, and the timelines, exceptions, and exemptions for each.
Webinar: FAQs on the IFC Vaccine and Masking Requirements
In this webinar, hear from Dr. Futrell and OHS staff as they walk through FAQs related to the new HSPPS requiring masking and COVID-19 vaccination.
Part 2: Universal Masking and COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement FAQs
Listen to Dr. Futrell and Office of Head Start staff address updated FAQs related to the Head Start Program Performance Standards requiring masking and COVID-19 vaccination.
Last Updated: August 21, 2024