Head Start ® relies heavily on families and community members to strengthen its programs. The Head Start ® Policy Council is made up of parents and community representatives. As a member, they have broad authority and review over both the policy goals and the day-to-day operations of Head Start ® centers, including the establishment of enrollment criteria, the hiring and termination of staff, budgeting, and fundraising.

Members are elected by a majority vote at the first Policy Council meeting of the school year.

Types of Members

Parents (or persons acting in the same role as parents) of children currently enrolled in the Head Start® Program. The parent can only represent the classroom of his or her child.

Local community members

These include 1) private individuals and representatives of public agencies or organizations interested in or responsible for improving the educational opportunities, health, nutrition and socioeconomic well-being of preschool children and their families and 2) past parents who are parents of formerly enrolled Head Start® children and who have had a child in the program.