Tucson Standard

U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06) participated in the Head Start on the Hill rally to discuss the significance of early childhood development programs and provide updates on his congressional efforts.

In February 2024, Ciscomani introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at addressing childcare workforce shortages and expanding access to Early Head Start programs. The Head Start Education and Development Workforce Advancement and Yield (HEADWAY) Act (H.R. 7467) proposes allowing Early Head Start teachers to teach while earning their Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials. This measure aims to offer greater hiring flexibility for Head Start programs while supporting education professionals and increasing childcare access for families in need.

A companion bill was introduced in the Senate by Senators Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Mike Braun (R-IN).

“As an immigrant and dad of six, I understand firsthand the critical need to expand access to childhood development and care programs,” said Ciscomani. “I was so proud to attend the Head Start on the Hill rally to hear from members, parents, educators, and more about the value of Head Start programs. With nearly 500 locations across Arizona, and thousands across the United States, these programs are vital to the well-being of our families and children. In Congress, I will continue to push for legislation, funding, and other efforts to promote and expand access to Head Start.”

Ciscomani has been a long-time advocate of Head Start programs within Arizona’s 6th Congressional District. He visited a Head Start program in Tucson in December 2023 and another in Casa Grande in August 2024.

As a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, Ciscomani also helped secure increased funding for Head Start in the FY 25 House appropriations package.

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