Early Childhood Education — National & International
Build a Stronger Future for Children and Families
Head Start East was created to bring early childhood professionals together for meaningful professional development, collaboration, and networking. We empower the early childhood community by connecting leaders, educators, and advocates to share best practices, strengthen program quality, and build a stronger future for children and families.
Open for Registration
Register Today
Introduction to CLASS
In Partnership with Teachstone
A practical 45-minute virtual session for new teachers, aides, and anyone preparing for monitoring season. The session will be recorded.
ASCEND Leadership Lab
First Cohort Forming Now
An intensive leadership experience for early childhood leaders ready to solve their organization's hardest challenges. Two in-person intensives, national peer cohort. Space is limited.
HSE LIVE: Syracuse
Turning Stone Resort · Verona, New York
Three days, four events. Professional development, fiscal leadership, family engagement, and an evening reception. Register for one track or mix and match.
Our Mission
Connecting the Head Start Community
Head Start East is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting early learning professionals and programs across the country and beyond. We empower the early childhood community by connecting leaders, educators, and advocates to share best practices, strengthen program quality, and build a stronger future for children and families.
Learn More About HSETimely, practical, and high-impact learning for every role.
A welcoming space to meet, network, and collaborate.
Programs and content centered on equity for children and families.
Partnering with — not replacing — existing associations and networks.
From Our Inaugural Annual Conference
In Their Own Words
Our inaugural Annual Conference brought Head Start professionals together from 31 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands — four days of workshops, keynotes, fiscal training, and celebration. Here's what they told us afterward.
"The connections that were made were awesome. In the trainings not only did I learn so much that I will share with my program, but the people that I met were wonderful."
"I loved the mix of learning and laughter. The workshops were great and the networking after hours was equally as wonderful."
"You truly led this conference with heart and mind, bringing great experiences that help fill both."
Scenes from the inaugural Head Start East Annual Conference — San Juan, Puerto Rico
What's Coming Up
Upcoming Events
Aug 19, 2026
Introduction to CLASS: What Every Educator Needs to Know
In Partnership with Teachstone
Virtual · 45 minutes
Register →Sep 23, 2026 – Sep 25, 2026
Head Start East LIVE: Syracuse
Turning Stone Resort and Casino · Verona, New York
Register →Aug 26, 2026
Trauma-Informed Practice: Moving Beyond the Buzzword into Day-to-Day Classroom Practice
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM