The North Carolina Head Start Association (NCHSA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing the interests of Head Start and Early Head Start programs across the state of North Carolina. It acts as a unified voice for its member agencies, advocating for high-quality early childhood education, comprehensive health and nutrition services, and family engagement practices. The association provides leadership in policy development, training, technical assistance, and collaboration with state and federal partners. Through these efforts, NCHSA seeks to improve outcomes for children from low-income families and ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed in school and life.
NCHSA also plays a key role in fostering professional development and community among Head Start staff and stakeholders. It organizes conferences, workshops, and networking events to enhance the skills and knowledge of early childhood educators, administrators, and family service workers. By promoting innovative practices, inclusive programming, and data-informed decision-making, the association helps its members meet evolving challenges in early childhood education. Ultimately, the North Carolina Head Start Association serves as a crucial hub for advocacy, collaboration, and continuous improvement in the early childhood field throughout the state.
NCHSA organizes and assists with several professional development events throughout the year, such as the Annual Training Conference, New Directors Orientation, Director’s Caucus meetings and special Cluster training events.
Members enjoy the opportunity to network at collaborative events held in partnership with partner agencies, social service and early childhood organizations.
We are building our capacity to serve as a one-stop resource both for NC Head Start programs and for parents, community partners, collaborative partners, elected officials and anyone with an interest in Head Start Association.
NCHSA supports members in researching issues and questions, and provides referrals and information as appropriate.
October 7-10, 2025
The North Carolina Head Start Association
The North Carolina Head Start Association (NCHSA) represents 59 federally funded Head Start Grantees across North Carolina. This includes a Tribal (Cherokee) and Migrant programs, as well as community action, private non-profit, county government, board of education and single purpose agencies.