Head Start's role

Head Start has been the great equalizer for over 60 years, forming first friendships and cultivating self-awareness in children.

“For my parents, childcare was an expensive proposition, so while my veteran father enrolled in community college, he enrolled me in childcare.”

Proposed cuts

The Trump administration plans to remove staff-to-child ratio mandates, overcrowd classrooms, and eliminate evidence-based math and literacy standards.

At-risk groups

Children with disabilities, infants, and dual-language learners face reduced support under the proposed changes.

HHS claims

The Department of Health and Human Services says these changes will cut red tape and free up money for the program.

Quality risk

Removing quality benchmarks risks children's kindergarten readiness and undermines parental involvement in education.

Alternative approach

Head Start was designed to provide quality education affordable for all families, not just those who can pay for private preschools.

Public comment

The proposal remains open for public comment until October 6, giving impacted families a chance to speak out.

Teens need spaces

Chicago teens struggle to find accessible third spaces for gatherings without facing complex licensing requirements.

Teen beach party

A teen beach party faced challenges when adult volleyball players wanted to use the nets reserved for teens.

Third spaces

Community businesses need simpler licensing to host youth activities without complex applications and fees.

Gary church

A historic church in Gary, Minnesota, could become a cultural hub with arts, housing, and community spaces.

Church potential

The church has potential for an arts museum, entertainment venue, or housing without requiring complete demolition.

Preservation

Historic structures can be preserved with state grants and partnerships, not just through new construction.