A Letter from the Director on Supporting Programs in the COVID-19 Pandemic

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

Dr. Bernadine Futrell, Director of the Office of Head Start

Dear Head Start community,

Thank you for your commitment to providing comprehensive services for children and families and connecting them to safe, nurturing environments during this ongoing pandemic. As we begin the new year, there is an understandable concern about the impacts of the COVID-19 variants. This is an especially challenging time as Head Start programs move forward in serving more children while also grappling with the dynamics of this ever-changing pandemic. The Office of Head Start (OHS) is committed to supporting programs with this balance. In keeping with this commitment, OHS will continue to pause the evaluation of which programs will enter the Full Enrollment Initiative.

While we were hopeful the pandemic would be ending by now, OHS recognizes that the public health emergency continues throughout the country. We also know that Head Start children and families depend on in-person services. During this time, programs should continue making decisions about service delivery that are informed by U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health department guidelines and based on what is best for families. Programs are encouraged to use existing plans to adapt to changes in community conditions and partner with their regional office throughout the process.

OHS encourages programs to use their American Rescue Plan funds to support staff and families in getting vaccinated, purchase COVID-19 at-home tests, and ensure a supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) for everyone. Head Start programs have the flexibility to determine which one-time investments best support the needs of staff, children, and families while adhering to federal, state, and local guidance.

We all must do our part to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Therefore, it is highly recommended that all eligible individuals be vaccinated against COVID-19 and wear a mask indoors. Information about the vaccine, such as where to get one, can be found at www.vaccines.gov. Programs can also lower the risk of exposure to the virus with a layered prevention strategy that includes test-to-stay, keeping distance, screening testing, ventilation, hand-washing, and staying home when sick.

With so many suffering with grief and enormous stress, it is more important than ever to focus on the essential components of Head Start services: health, safety, and good nutrition along with an emphasis on relationships that are respectful, responsive, inclusive, and supportive. Since 1965, Head Start programs have provided critical resources, services, and support to thousands of children and families in times of crisis. This is all taking place as staff care for their own families and personal well-being.

Uniting as a Head Start community to co-create a new and innovative path forward has been a huge part of successfully navigating this pandemic. Thank you for being committed to moving Head Start Forward together!

In truth, unity, and love,

/ Dr. Bernadine Futrell /

Dr. Bernadine Futrell
Director
Office of Head Start

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