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 2026

IHSA &

Iowa EC-PBIS Conference

April 15, 2026

Get registered and learn more HERE today!


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

Energize Your Impact


Reclaim Your Joy


Pyramid Model Strategies


Building Supportive Environments


Relations & Routines


Rejuvenate and Reset



Networking options



Come celebrate the 2026 Head Start award and scholarship winners!

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

we celebrate and connect! ALL Early Childhood program invited!

February 25, 2026

PITC Training

Infants and Toddlers

9am-12pm Only $50

February 18, 2026

Supporting Sensory Needs

in Early Childhood Autism

9am-12pm Only $50


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

SAVE THE DATE

IHSA Annual Meeting and Fall Conference

October 30, 2026

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.

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!

2025-26 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, 2026

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.

Thank you to our generous partnering SPONSORS!