Blind Children’s Center Urges Protection of Head Start Services for LA Families & Children with Disabilities

The federal Administration for Children and Families has proposed changes to Head Start regulations that would rollback requirements for health and developmental screenings, services for children with disabilities and support for dual language learners. The proposal would remove specific timelines for developmental, vision and hearing screenings, as well as certain requirements related to disability services and inclusive participation. It would also eliminate standards for supporting a child’s home language alongside English, including requirements for assessments and family engagement services in a family’s preferred language.

These changes could have a significant impact in Los Angeles, where an estimated 36% of the population speaks Spanish. Blind Children’s Center (BCC) is a Head Start delegate of the Los Angeles County Office of Education, which serves more than 7,000 children across the county.

At the end of September, I will travel to Washington, D.C. with Head Start leaders from all over the country, to meet with representatives, emphasize the importance of Head Start for children with disabilities and urge policymakers to reject the proposed changes.

Every day, we work alongside families who are doing everything they can to make sure their children have the support and opportunities they deserve. Navigating services for a child with a disability can already be overwhelming, and Head Start helps families connect with critical care and resources. These proposed changes could create even more barriers for families as they support their child during early development.

I look forward to bringing the voices of our families to Washington, D.C., and advocating for Head Start services and the protections their children need to thrive.

Sincerely,

Sarah Orth, CEO, Blind Children’s Center