Head Start impacts maternal and intergenerational outcomes in health, education, and economic viability. The National Academy of Sciences Engineering & Medicine Committee recommends Head Start be used as a model for universal pre-k efforts. Head Start embodies health equity. It is a comprehensive program that addresses the full scope of children and family needs in addition to school readiness.

“Federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial policy makers should work with the Department of Health and Human Services, the Office of Head Start, and the Office of Childcare to develop and implement a plan to improve the quality of early care education programs by building on the performance standards of Early Head Start and Head Start.” -Dr. Iheoma U. Iruka, UNC

Read an excerpt of the Vibrant and Healthy Kids: Aligning Science, Practice, and Policy to Advance Health Equity report here.

Watch their panel discussion here.