The Battle Over Head Start: What the Research Shows

As a comprehensive child development program, Head Start provides education, health, nutrition, and social services to young children and their families. Nearly four decades of research establish that Head Start delivers the intended services and improves the lives and development of the children and families it serves. Despite these successes, questions continue to be raised about the extent to which Head Start produces lasting educational benefits. Many have been persuaded that Head Start produces no lasting academic benefits for children. A careful review of the research yields a different conclusion--Head Start produces substantial long-term educational benefits.

Critics charge Head Start's effects are smaller than model preschool programs. But Head Start has never been funded anywhere near the levels of the model programs, and yet is asked to provide far more comprehensive services. Head Start can produce even greater gains for children in the future. This will require increased funding and standards, particularly to raise Head Start teacher qualifications.