The basics: The proposed Head Start rule was open for a 60 day comment period that ended on January 19. It’s expected to be finalized later this year after consideration of public comments. It’s the biggest set of changes to Head Start in the last decade, focusing on a wide range of areas including workforce compensation, mental health, and a variety of reporting requirements. It sets a vision for the future of Head Start, with aspirational policy goals like reaching pay parity with public school teachers with similar qualifications, and prioritizing mental health for both children and staff. (author abstract)