TXHSA Head Start Leadership Summit – “Leading Through Change” (Austin, TX)

THEME: Leading Through Change: The New Era of Thriving Through Uncertainty

In today’s rapidly evolving political climate—amid ongoing economic, educational, social, and health disparities impacting low-income children and families—the Texas Head Start Association (TXHSA) and its members are more critical than ever.  The theme, “Leading Through Change: The New Era of Thriving Through Uncertainty,” emphasizes the urgent need for Head Start leaders to develop a plan for the future of Head Start.

In recent months, uncertainty has surrounded early care and education, health and human services, and government funding, particularly regarding ongoing federal support for Head Start and other initiatives from President Lyndon B. Johnson’s 1964 Great Society. These programs, designed to combat poverty and expand economic opportunity, have evolved, shaping modern social welfare policies. While progress has been made, there is still considerable work to be done.

The need for Head Start has never been greater. The U.S. Chamber Foundation highlights the significant economic impact of childcare accessibility, noting that state economies lose between $100 million and $10 billion annually due to childcare challenges. This highlights the crucial role of early childhood education in promoting workforce stability and economic growth, underscoring the ongoing need for programs such as Head Start.

The 2025 Texas Head Start Leadership Summit is a 2-day pivotal event designed for Head Start executives, directors, coordinators, and specialists. It provides an opportunity to focus on strategic visioning and policy planning for the future of Head Start in Texas. Through keynote presentations, panel discussions, and candid “real talk” sessions, the summit will create space for collaborative planning and solutions to navigate today’s uncertainties. Attendees will gain valuable policy updates, data insights, and tools to advance their programs.

 Anticipated Learning Outcomes for the 2025 TXHSA Leadership Summit:

1. TXHSA’s 2025 organizational priorities and strategic initiatives
2. Legislative and policy updates
3. Insight into the past and present federal priorities and implications for Head Start
4. Strategies for aligning policy efforts with national, regional, and state partners
5. Data-informed practices to strengthen operational systems
6. Expanded access to workforce development and career advancement pathways
7. Exploration of critical issues shaping the future of Head Start, including:
   • Smooth Entry Texas, Full Enrollment, and Unenrollment strategies
   • Immigration policy impacts
   • Staffing challenges, retention solutions, and strategic funding
   • Community engagement best practices
   • Policy navigation, resource maximization, and collaborative networking

TXHSA serves as a cornerstone for Head Start program parents, staff, and partners, offering a vital platform to share innovative models and operational strategies tailored to the diverse needs of Texas families and communities. This role is critical as Head Start programs across the state face mounting challenges and demand for services.

Target Audience

This unique learning opportunity is ideal for both emerging and experienced professionals across various leadership levels and content areas. We encourage Head Start programs to register as organizational teams, including Chief Executive Officers or Executive Directors, Board Members, Policy Council Members, Head Start Directors, Finance Directors, Human Resource Directors, Information Technology Directors, Operations and Program Coordinators, Content Area Managers, and Supervisors.

Agenda at a Glance

Learn More and Register

TXHSA members receive discounted registration. This is a limited-ticket event. Advance purchase is recommended; there is onsite registration. Tickets are non-refundable.

Conference Location and Hotel 

TXHSA May2025 – Start your reservation