This album captures moments from the NHSA Winter Leadership Institute and Capitol Hill visits, highlighting Head Start leaders learning together and advocating with members of Congress. (6 photos)
Throughout October, Head Start and Early Head Start programs across Illinois celebrated 60 years of Head Start with free museum days, family events, and community activities.
This album highlights moments shared with IHSA from programs, partners, and families statewide — a collective celebration of learning, connection, and community pride.
Thank you to everyone who joined in, shared their photos, and helped make this year’s celebration a success. Together, we continue to show that Head Start works — because people do. (89 photos)
Behind every statistic is a story—and Illinois brought 22 strong voices to Washington, DC last week to make sure those stories were heard. Together with 200 advocates nationwide, we met with Congress to show how Head Start changes lives. #HeadStartWorks #HeadStart (6 photos)
Check out these wonderful moments from TCOC Head Start's Lacon classroom visit with Senator Balkema. It's great to see Senator Balkema spending time with children and educators, and experiencing firsthand the incredible impact of Head Start. Thanks, TCOC Head Start, for sharing your special day with us! (37 photos)
Loud and Proud for Head Start
One of the most memorable moments of the conference was the rally at the Capitol Rotunda. After an energizing morning with keynote speaker Mills Rodgers, attendees took their voices to the heart of Illinois government—chanting “We Are Head Start!” and proudly sharing the program’s impact.
Special guests and government leaders joined in the celebration, including- Deputy Governor for Education Martin Torres; Representative Joyce Mason
Senator Gabriella Guzmán (a former Head Start child and parent!); Senator Michael W. Halpin; Representative Gregg Johnson
A highlight of the rally was the presentation of the Governor’s Proclamation by Lauri Morrison-Frichtl, Executive Director of IHSA, officially recognizing 60 years of Head Start’s impact. Attendees enjoyed networking, appetizers, cupcakes, and a powerful display of 60 collected Head Start stories, showcased in banners throughout the Rotunda. (26 photos)
This September, Illinois advocates for Head Start and Early Head Start will travel to Washington, D.C., for NHSA’s 2024 Fall Leadership Institute. During this four-day event, they will engage in critical policy discussions and advocate for the Head Start Advantage on Capitol Hill. Their visits to the offices of U.S. Representatives Nikki Budzinski (D-13), Danny Davis (D-7), Mike Quigley (D-5), and Lauren Underwood (D-14) will reinforce the importance of Head Start programs in shaping the future of young children and families. Leadership and advocacy matter—being an influencer can make a difference! (6 photos)
