Overview

• New York City was denied renewal as a Head Start super grantee for the next five-year cycle, according to notifications to providers and city officials.
• City leaders said local funding will keep Early Head Start and Head Start services running through this school year, with no commitment yet beyond June.
• The expired federal grant was worth about $78 million and supported roughly 5,900 seats for infants, toddlers and preschoolers from low-income families.
• The Office of Head Start said top applications were funded and that it will transition NYC operations to new awardees in the coming weeks, with award details pending.
• NYC’s reapplication followed a 2023 federal audit citing management and safety deficiencies and chronically low enrollment in the mid-60% range versus a 97% target, and some local providers may still receive federal funds directly.