In March 2024, the Office of Head Start (OHS) issued a Request for Information (RFI) in the Federal Register, Request for Information: Office of Head Start Tribal Programs. Its goal was to gather comprehensive feedback from Tribal leaders, program staff, families, and other stakeholders on the needs and challenges of American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) Head Start programs. The public comment period was open for six months and closed on Sept. 16, 2024.
The RFI focused on 13 key areas, including:
- Eligibility
- Program Options
- Quality Environments
- Child Health and Safety
- Tribal Language Preservation, Maintenance, Revitalization, and Restoration
- Family and Community Engagement
- Investing in the Workforce
- Training and Technical Assistance (TTA)
- Supporting Partnerships with State Systems
- Facilities
- Fiscal Operations and Management
- Early Childhood Systems
- Other Topics
During the comment period, stakeholders provided valuable insights into the key areas. They emphasized the importance of culturally responsive practices, the integration of traditional knowledge, and the critical role of Tribal sovereignty in program design. Feedback included calls for enhanced language preservation efforts, increased workforce investment, and tailored TTA to address the unique needs of AIAN communities.
This page includes informational resources, including a summary of comments received, fact sheet, and on-demand listening sessions or other engagement activities.
OHS Tribal Programs RFI Summary Report
The RFI feedback and insights report, completed in October 2024, reflects the collective voices of Tribal stakeholders and their unwavering commitment to the well-being of AIAN children and families. This feedback will inform OHS in future policies, training and technical assistance, and support to strengthen AIAN Head Start programs while honoring nation-to-nation relationships.
