Proposed rule threatens Head Start enrollment for tens of thousands of homeless children

A rule proposed by the Trump administration seeks to discard the existing standards that require Head Start programs to prioritize children from homeless families, replacing 133 pages of guidance with stricter paperwork requirements. Under current rules, programs can reserve up to 3 percent of seats for homeless children, accept self-attestation of homelessness, and waive documentation, enabling enrollment of more than 60,000 homeless children in the 2024-25 school year.

Critics say the new rule would make it difficult for families like Millicah Wanjiru, who relies on an Early Head Start class linked to Mary’s Place, to access services and could reduce homeless enrollment dramatically. Organizations such as Mary’s Place, SchoolHouse Connection, and the American Civil Liberties Union are preparing comments, while senators including Patty Murray pledge to oppose the changes. The public comment period runs through early October, after which HHS will review feedback before issuing a final rule that could take effect 60 days later unless blocked by litigation.