Head Start Grantees Instructed to Present Training, Expenditures Free from DEI

The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services sent a letter to Head Start program recipients, amplifying President Trump’s executive order on removing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. 

ACF Acting Assistant Secretary Andrew Gradison wrote: “The Office of Head Start will not approve the use of federal funding for any training and technical assistance or other program expenditures that promote or take part in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. This includes expenditures for services provided by contractors or vendors.” 

The Office of Head Start, part of ACF, provides over $12 billion to grantees to serve approximately 800,000 children each year in the federally funded preschool program.  

“With your next application submission, Head Start grant recipients should carefully review their annual funding application, including the budget and budget justification narrative, training and technical assistance plans, program goals and any other supplemental materials to ensure they are in accordance with this guidance,” wrote Gradison to grantees. 

The guidance to Head Start grantees can be read here. 

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