Knocking it All Down: Why We Need to Build a New Quality Rating Improvement System
This session was presented during BUILD 2022 National Conference.
Sometimes the best way forward is to knock down existing structures and rebuild them from the ground up. Such is the case with QRIS, which should measure meaningful differences in the quality of ECE programs but in practice are only weakly associated with child outcomes. As a result, providers lack the information they need to improve and families do not know which programs will best address their needs. Using powerful videos and real-world state examples, the session explores how states can more accurately and equitably measure critical aspects of program quality that support children’s healthy growth and development.
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Head Start Under Threat: What the Field is Saying
Research September 1, 2026
Over the past few months, HHS has advanced two related sets of proposed changes to Head Start. National, state, and local partners across the early childhood field have raised serious concerns about both. This document is a summary of what our partners are saying, followed by concrete actions and resources for you and your organization. The content reflects our partners' own statements and comments — we agree with what they've said and are sharing it here with full source attribution. Updated September 1, 2026.
Where We Stand on Head Start
Blog August 18, 2026
For more than 60 years, Head Start has provided high-quality child care, comprehensive services, and a two-generation approach that helps families furthest from opportunity access early learning, development, health, and family well-being supports.
Connecting the Dots: Holistic Help for Women and Children Experiencing Homelessness
Blog July 27, 2026
At a time when marginalized populations are more vulnerable than ever, it’s inspiring to hear from individuals who have prevailed over dire circumstances. Their stories give us hope. The formerly homeless single mothers spotlighted here are resolute and resourceful. But they’d be the first to say that they likely wouldn’t be where they are today without the supports they received along the way.