Celebrate Head Start

A lot has changed in the last 60 years, but Head Start hasn't. The organization continues to serve our nation and has reached.more than 40 million children in the past six decades.

In 1965, the average income was $5,807, the movie "The Sound of Music" was released, and the Beatles rocked the first ever stadium concert at Shea Stadium where a field level box ticket cost $5.65. Another significant event in 1965: Head Start was launched offering free, comprehensive early child development services to low-income children and families across the United States.

Over the past 60 years, Head Start has reached nearly 40 million children in rural, suburban, and urban communities, with 46% of program slots serving children in rural areas (Center for American Progress).

For six decades, Head Start has played a vital role in delivering essential early childhood services nationwide, creating lasting, multigenerational benefits that support children’s health, learning, and overall well-being. The program emphasizes the critical importance of a child’s first 2,000 days of life as a foundation for lifelong success. Let’s celebrate 60 years of success! Click here to view a video celebrating this extraordinary milestone. (You may need to use Chrome as your browser when viewing).

Happy 60th Birthday Head Start!