GEEARS has submitted public comments on proposed changes to Head Start!

More than 20,000 Georgia children are served by Head Start and Early Head Start, which provide early learning alongside critical health, nutrition, disability, and family supports. During the public comment period, which closed October 6th, GEEARS raised concerns about sweeping proposed changes to Head Start standards, including changes to teacher-child ratios, developmental screenings, supports for children with disabilities, and more. Our message: Reducing unnecessary administrative burden is important, but streamlining should make it easier for programs to serve children and families—not weaken what makes Head Start work. Our comments incorporated feedback from Georgia Head Start leaders and highlighted opportunities to reduce administrative burden while protecting program quality. Thank you to everyone who submitted comments, shared their experiences, and advocated for a strong Head Start!