2026 ERSEA Summit I: Smooth Entry Masterclass

Smooth Entry Masterclass Overview

The Texas Head Start Association (TXHSA), H.G. Jones & Associates (HGJA), ESC Region 19 Head Start, and a coalition of state, local, and corporate partners are proud to present the “Smooth Entry Texas” Masterclasses, part of a series aimed at addressing the key issues in under-enrollment in Head Start and Early Head Start programs. These professional development sessions will help participants identify and analyze the root causes of under-enrollment, engage in strategic action planning to meet ERSEA (Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment, and Attendance) goals, and implement targeted strategies to overcome enrollment challenges both in the Texas state regionally and nationally.

Head Start offers essential comprehensive services, with annual costs ranging from $10,000 to $15,000 for Preschool Head Start and $15,000 to $22,000 for Early Head Start. According to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and other sources, many programs struggle to achieve full enrollment, resulting in approximately 180,000 vacancies each year. To address this issue, TXHSA and HGJA launched the “Smooth Entry Texas” initiative, which brings together experts to develop effective strategies that ensure every enrollment slot is filled in communities across Texas, regionally, and nationally.

This two-day Masterclass will analyze current trends affecting local programs and the critical data needed to improve eligibility and admissions systems within Head Start and Early Head Start. It aims to enhance the understanding of leaders and managers regarding the Head Start Act, Final Rules, performance standards, and other federal, state, and local mandates, while also promoting industry best practices and proposing innovative new strategies. We invite and encourage all Head Start and Early Head Start teams to join us for this inspiring and dynamic event! Let’s come together to share our experiences, discover innovative solutions, and celebrate our achievements. Together, we can empower each other to reach new heights in performance and success, making a profound impact on the lives we touch. Your participation is key to fostering growth and inspiration in our community!

Agenda at a Glance

Date and Location

Wednesday, January 21, 2026 and Thursday, January 22, 2026
ESC 19 Head Start Multi-Purpose Center Training Facility,
11670 Chito Samaniego, El Paso, Texas 79936

Hotel Accommodations

Participants are responsible for arranging their travel and accommodations.

1. Holiday Inn Express & Suites El Paso I-10 East, 11825 Gateway Blvd W, El Paso, TX 79936 Phone: +1 (915) 590-3200 | State rate $110 (includes breakfast/parking)
2. Hampton Inn & Suites El Paso/East | 12055 Gateway Blvd W, El Paso, TX 79936 Phone: +1 (915) 872-1215 | State rate $110 (includes breakfast/parking)
3. Courtyard El Paso East/I-10 | 12065 Gateway Blvd W, El Paso, TX 79936 Phone: +1 (915) 859-3336 | State rate $154 (includes Wi-Fi/parking)
4. TownePlace Suites El Paso East/I-10 | 11521 Gateway Blvd W, El Paso, TX 79936 Phone: +1 (915) 444-7500 | No government rate available, $229 + tax (includes breakfast/parking)

A Curated Experience

TXHSA and HGJA are crafting a one-of-a-kind learning experience focused on achieving and sustaining full enrollment in Head Start and Early Head Start programs.

Learning Outcomes

Participants will:

• Understand the root causes of under-enrollment.
• Gain tools and strategies to reduce and eliminate under-enrollment
• Strengthen ERSEA systems and team-based compliance approaches
• Clarify leadership roles in supporting direct service staff
• Develop innovative solutions to meet and maintain full enrollment
• Identify resources at national, regional, state, and local levels

Target Audience

This event is ideal for emerging and seasoned professionals across specialties. Programs are encouraged to register as full teams, including:

• CEOs and Executive Directors
• Board and Policy Council Members
• Head Start Directors
• Finance, HR, and IT Directors
• Operations and Program Coordinators
• Content Area Managers and Supervisors
• Intake and ERSEA staff
• Anyone with ERSEA oversight or accountability

Presenters

• Texas Head Start Association Representatives
• H. G. Jones & Associates Staff
• Early Childhood and Head Start Consultants
• Corporate Partners

Learn More and Register

• TXHSA members receive discounted registration.
• Limited tickets available. Advance purchase recommended.
• Tickets are non-refundable.
• On-site registration available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it an In-Person or Hybrid Event?

• This is an in-person event in El Paso, Texas. All sessions are live; no virtual option is available.
• TXHSA and HGJA are committed to participant safety and will follow industry-leading hygiene protocols. Updates will be posted as needed.

Upcoming Smooth Entry Masterclasses, Winter Leadership Conference & ERSEA Certification Courses

• Pre-Conference Masterclass Improving Leadership, Management, Strategy, and Operations – February 23-24, 2026, Austin, TX
• Albert Black Winter Leadership Conference – February 25-27, 2026,Austin, TX
• ERSEA Certification Course Training: Level One – March 19-20, 2026, Chicago, IL (In-Person & Virtual)
• ERSEA Certification Course Training: Level Two – April 21-22, 2026, Chicago, IL (In-Person & Virtual)
• ERSEA Certification Course Training: Level Three – May 19-20, 2026, Chicago, IL (In-Person & Virtual)
• ERSEA Certification Course Training: Review & Exam – June 16-17, 2026, Chicago, IL (In-Person & Virtual)