AASA, NHSA Urge the Administration to Provide Clear Guidance Regarding Head Start Vaccine Mandate

On February 8, AASA and the National Head Start Association (NHSA) sent a letter to Secretaries Cardona (USED) and Becerra (HHS) asking for clear guidance on the Head Start Interim Final Rule with Comments (IFC) on vaccines and masking to ensure Head Start programs and public school system leaders can continue to operate Head Start programs and ensure that Head Start children and their families safely retain access to critical services.

School districts are essential partners that often directly deliver services to Head Start children and families. They need clarity on how the mandates will apply in locations where the IFC conflicts with state and/or local regulations or guidance in a manner which does not isolate or negatively impact children. Read the full letter here.