Addressing Vacant Slots Due to Chronic Absenteeism in Head Start Programs
This IM clarifies when Head Start programs should consider a slot vacant after long-term absences, and offers strategies programs improve attendance.
Head Start Policy and Regulations
Information Memoranda
Fiscal Year 2026 Monitoring Process for Head Start Recipients
This Information Memorandum explains the monitoring process for fiscal year 2026, including updates to review formats and when reviews will take place.
Expanding Educational Freedom and Opportunities for Families in Head Start Programs
Log Number: ACF-OHS-IM-25-04 | Issuance Date: 04-29-2025
Promoting Healthy Eating and Nutrition for Head Start Children and Families
This Information Memorandum affirms the critical role of Head Start programs in ensuring children and families have access to healthy food and comprehensive nutrition services.
Supporting Food Security and Access to Indigenous Foods for Children and Families in Tribal Early Childhood Programs
Log Number: ACF-OHS-IM-25-01 | Issuance Date: 01-14-2025
Reporting Child Health and Safety Incidents
Log Number: ACF-OHS-IM-24-06 | Issuance Date: 11-07-2024
Facilities Guidance
This IM helps recipients understand the Head Start application and funding process for facilities activities. The guidance is based on the Head Start Program Performance Standards updated on Aug. 21, 2024.
Treatment of Rebates, Refunds, Discounts, and Similar Cost Savings
This Information Memorandum (IM) provides guidance on cost-saving measures and how the savings should be treated by the recipient toward the Head Start award. This IM supersedes ACF-IM-HS-12-09.
The Role of Head Start Programs in Addressing Lead in Water
Head Start programs have a critical role to play in preventing lead poisoning in children. This Information Memorandum highlights available resources for programs to address lead in water specifically.
Enrollment Reductions and Conversion of Head Start Slots to Early Head Start Slots
Reduced funded enrollment or conversion of Head Start to Early Head Start slots is considered a change in scope request. This IM provides guidance for the development and submission of these requests.
