Still Going Strong: Head Start Children, Families, Staff, and Programs in 2004

Publication Date: November 2005

Publisher: Center for Law and Social Policy

Author(s): Danielle Ewen; Katie Hamm

Research Area: Health; Social conditions

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

As Congress considers legislation to reauthorize the federal Head Start program, this policy brief examines the latest data from the Program Information Reports that all Head Start grantees must submit to the U.S. Department of Health. In 2004, Head Start continued to provide early education services and medical, dental, and mental health screenings for poor children, as well as comprehensive supports for families. The number of teachers with degrees grew substantially in 2004—65 percent of teachers had an Associate’s Degree or higher. Less than half of eligible children, however, receive Head Start services.