Head Start Performance Standards
The Head Start Performance Standards are a set of federal regulations governing the administration and operation of Head Start programs in the United States. These standards establish specific requirements for program governance, staffing, early childhood education, family engagement, health services, mental health services, nutrition, and disability services. The purpose of these standards is to ensure that all Head Start programs provide high-quality comprehensive services to low-income children and their families, with the goal of promoting school readiness and long-term academic success. Compliance with these performance standards is mandatory for all Head Start grantees and delegates, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation are conducted to ensure continued adherence.