I am writing in response to the proposed FY26 budget (federal), which could negatively impact the Head Start program, or even eliminate it entirely. This budget could remove the critical role that the social policy Head Start plays in our community.
Head Start plays an essential role in children from low-income families, children experiencing homelessness, and children in foster care. The program serves children from birth to age five. Head Start covers a domain of skills for children including social, emotional, and developmental factors. This includes nutritious meals/snacks and medical screenings such as dental exams.
Not only does Head Start positively impact children, but it also impacts families in general. Here in Wood County, Head Start offers Home Base. In this program home visits are conducted weekly by staff members to help families and accomplish specific goals. Thus, Head Start provides a variety of services and creates a foundation for children.
Research has shown that children involved in Head Start are more prepared for kindergarten than their peers. As well as research from the National Head Start Association (2022) shows that children who attended Head Start are more likely to complete high school and begin post-secondary education.
I urge our legislators and local authorities to keep supporting Head Start. One of the best methods to create a better future for everybody is to invest in our youngest students.
Jazmine Galitza
Bucyrus
References
Home-Base Pregnant Women Services. Wood County Head Start. (2016, April 28). https://www.woodcoheadstart.org/home-base/
National Head Start Association. (2022, March 8). Facts and impacts. NHSA. https://nhsa.org/resource/facts-and-impacts/
The Associated Press. (2025, April 18). White House Proposes Eliminating Head Start Funding in Sweeping Budget Cuts. Education Week. https://www.edweek.org/policy-politics/white-house-proposes-eliminating-head-start-funding-in-sweeping-budget-cuts/2025/04
