ACF Announces 2024-2025 National Head Start Fellows

The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently selected the 2024-2025 fellows for the National Head Start Fellowship Program (NHSFP). This competitive leadership program offers professionals from local Head Start and other early childhood and family services programs the opportunity to gain firsthand experience in federal policy and operations at the national level.

"The Head Start fellowship program is another way ACF is strengthening the Head Start workforce," said ACF Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Jeff Hild. "Through training, awareness, compensation, and transformational initiatives like the fellowship program, we are ensuring the children and families we serve receive the high-quality care and support they need."

During the 12-month fellowship, participants will work closely with senior leadership and contribute their expertise and insights, while benefiting from professional development, mentoring, and networking opportunities with national early childhood organizations and leaders.

"The National Head Start Fellowship Program has been a pivotal experience for many emerging leaders in early childhood programs," said Khari M. Garvin, Director of the Office of Head Start. "My own selection as a fellow in 1999 opened doors to extraordinary opportunities, equipping me to design and lead programs serving children and families at the local, state, and national levels."

The NHSFP, first launched in 1996, supports individuals committed to early childhood development and family services. Fellows participate in weekly leadership development activities, federal briefings, and collaborative projects designed to enhance their skills and broaden their understanding of federal operations. This immersive experience positions fellows to improve their leadership abilities and bring fresh, innovative perspectives to the federal government.

The 2024-2025 National Head Start fellows are:

• Ashley Grays, University of Central Florida, Ocoee, Florida, Doctoral Student/Graduate Assistant
• Kristien "Kristi" Monsour, Reach Up Head Start, Sauk Rapids, Minnesota, Mental Health Coordinator
• Lynette Gonzalez, Miami Dade County Public Schools, Department of Early Childhood, Miami, Florida, District Supervisor
• SaVanté Wallace, Region 16 Head Start, Amarillo, Texas, Family Services Specialist
• Shilo Pickering, Otoe-Missouria Tribe of Oklahoma, Red Rock, Oklahoma, Education Coordinator

Each fellow brings a unique blend of skills, professional experience, and deep commitment to fostering positive outcomes for children and families with the greatest need. By working at the intersection of policy and practice, the fellows will help shape national efforts in providing comprehensive early childhood services.

The NHSFP is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service's broader efforts to strengthen the Head Start workforce. These efforts include a new regulation to increase staff salaries, support through the National Early Care and Education Workforce Center, and expanded training opportunities through Head Start Tribal College and University Partnerships.

For more information about the NHSFP and how to apply for future cohorts, please visit: https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/about-us/article/national-head-start-fellowship-program

Head Start programs are for the children and families furthest from opportunity across America. Caring staff deliver services in core areas of early learning, health, and family well-being, while engaging parents as partners at every step. Programs are offered as center-based and home-based services for children from birth to age five. Head Start programs operate in every state, many Tribal nations, and several U.S. territories, including Puerto Rico. Services are delivered through 1,600 agencies that tailor the federal program to the local needs of families in their service area.

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