More than Meets the Eye: Head Start Programs, Participants, Families, and Staff in 2005

Publication Date: August 2006

Publisher: Center for Law and Social Policy

Author(s): Katie Hamm

Research Area: Social conditions

Type: Brief

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

This policy brief examines the latest data from the Program Information Reports (PIR) that all Head Start programs must submit to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In 2005, Head Start served fewer children than in previous years. At the same time, PIR data show that Head Start is increasingly a provider of last resort for low-income families. Despite a decrease in the number of families served, there was an increase in the number of families accessing an array of services through Head Start, including services for substance abuse, child abuse or neglect, mental health, and English as a Second Language courses. As in previous years, teacher education levels increased, but salaries remained stagnant.

Supplementary file: A fact sheet that reviews the 2005 Program Information Reports (PIR) data for the Early Head Start program, which serves children under age 3 and pregnant women.