The mission of the Iowa Head Start Association is to enhance the capacity of its members to promote and advocate for a wide variety of quality services for all of Iowa’s children and families.

Iowa Head Start Association

January 2025

IHSA Spring Conference

April 2-3, 2025

Get registered and learn more HERE today!


This is going to be a fun-filled two days of learning and celebrations!

  • Trauma Informed Care
  • Pyramid Model Strategies
  • Regulation Skills
  • Autism In Early Childhood
  • Improve outcomes across domains - Seven Key Skills
  • Networking options


Come celebrate the 2025 Head Start award and scholarship winners!

Have some FUN - re-energize, rejuvenate and recharge as

we celebrate Head Start's

60th Birthday!

Learn more and register HERE!
Order Head Start 60th Year Shirts HERE

IHSA Mentor Program

Do you have a new Head Start specialist or manager in your program? Promote staff retention and satisfaction by connecting them with a mentor in their specialty area to provide support. For more information email Lori.Ferris@IowaHeadStart.org

Mentor Request

Take a look at our upcoming Professional Development and Networking Calendar!

Sign Up Today!

Job Openings!


Iowa Head Start Programs need you!

 Be sure to also check with your local EHS/Head Start programs!
Check out Head Start Job Openings!

Head Start

Professional Wear

Featuring the Head Start blocks

Don't Delay!

Many options available!

Polos, Jackets, Vests, Sweatshirts, Cardigans and MORE!

Get your order in now for delivery in February!

Order NOW!

2024-25 IHSA Awards & Scholarships Nominations/applications are now being accepted. Please take time to recognize the outstanding work and partnerships that help demonstrate the Head Start advantage in Iowa.

Due February 1, 2025

Nomination Packet

Awards Categories


  • State Children's Champion
  • Administrator of the Year
  • Teacher of the Year
  • Support Staff of the Year
  • Family Leader of the Year
  • Family Advocate of the Year
  • Excellence in Community Service


Nominate yourself or a team member for $700 HIGHER EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIPS: 

• HEAD START ALUMNI HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR* 

• HEAD START PARENT POST SECONDARY EDUCATION* 

• HEAD START STAFF HIGHER EDUCATION*

* IHSA scholarship recipients will compete for additional Region VII $1,000 Scholarships presented at the 2025 R7HSA Annual Conference.

Download the Nomination Packet HERE

Donate to the

Dollar-Per-Child Fund!

The Iowa Head Start Association's professional development support, leadership and advocacy work on behalf of Head Start children and families is funded in part by donations from individuals like you. IHSA is a non-profit 501(C)(3) organization.
Donate Today
Find a Head Start Program!
Contact IHSA

Thanks for your support!

Thank you to our generous partnering SPONSORS!