This training is created in partnership with Training West, a program of the Region IX Head Start Association. 

A Training for Region IX Head Start Leaders

This interactive training is designed to give Region IX Head Start leaders an in-depth understanding of the myriad of applicable rules and regulations necessary to lead a strong program. We will discuss how to comply with the rules while implementing strategies to differentiate your organization from others and building effective systems to support plans to move forward and fulfill the organization’s visions and goals. Throughout the training, you will hear from nationally recognized attorneys and collaborate with other Head Start leaders in lively discussions of the issues at the top of mind in the Head Start community. Topics will include leadership and governance, financial management, and health and safety compliance.  

Session Descriptions

Current State of Head Start: Bird’s Eye View from Washington, D.C. 
There has been a lot of turmoil in Washington for the last few months which include constant threats of cuts to the Head Start appropriation. We start the workshop with the views from the nation’s capital and what we think the Head Start community should expect from Congress, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and the Office of Head Start (OHS), in 2024. Our discussion will include potential changes in law and policy and initiatives the Head Start community should consider.

Head Start Governance
If you have been involved with Head Start for even a few months, you have likely already experienced at least some of its unique governance challenges. In this session, we will discuss the respective financial responsibilities of the governing body and the policy council. We will also discuss how the board and the policy council should navigate difficult situations that arise when carrying out their governance responsibilities. Finally, we will consider how the governing body, policy council, and management can lead by example by maintaining compliance and ensuring accountability.

Financial Security: Providing Quality Head Start Services Amid Potential Budget Cuts
Head Start programs consistently find themselves in precarious financial circumstances, especially in light of the continued rising costs of providing high-quality services and ongoing threats of budget cuts. As part of this conversation, we will explore what programs need to think about when balancing funding from the federal, state, and local funding streams. We will close this session by identifying the best strategies to establish strong fiscal integrity for your organization.

Driving Innovation: Leading Your Agency
In this segment, we will evaluate what Head Start leaders can do to maximize community resources by developing strong strategic partnerships to promote financial stability while effectively serving the needs of the community. For example, how can partners help identify creative alternative sources of match/non-federal share. In addition, we will explore how programs can best leverage the knowledge, skills, and capabilities of the individuals within the organization to provide the most value with scarce financial resources.

Managing Health and Safety Challenges
During this interactive presentation, we will break down the requirements for reporting health and safety incidents, including the role of the Regional Office, and what leaders must do to encourage and create a culture of safety and awareness.

Working with the Federal Government
Our final segment will feature a conversation on how Head Start leaders can collaborate with other federal grantees and build strong relationships with the Regional Office. The session will also explore the best ways to make certain your concerns are effectively communicated in interactions with the Office of Head Start.