House OKs Head Start Reauthorization

House OKs Head Start Reauthorization

The U.S. House of Representatives voted this month to reauthorize the Head Start program, which provides early education and other comprehensive services to disadvantaged preschoolers.

The bill, approved May 2 by a 365-48 vote, would authorize a $500 million increase for the program, boost teacher and staff salaries and expand eligibility to more children. In addition, the legislation would strengthen the educational component of Head Start by updating program quality standards, and it would require better coordination with local education agencies. Last month, the National School Boards Association wrote to all representatives, indicating support for the bill.

Head Start offers grants to local agencies to provide comprehensive child development services to economically disadvantaged children, with an emphasis on early reading and math skills.