Annual Conference · April 12–15, 2027
See You in San Juan
Head Start East 2027 Annual Conference · The Royal Sonesta San Juan, Puerto Rico
Four days of practical training, real conversations with peers, and evenings of Puerto Rican music and culture, built for Head Start and Early Head Start leaders, staff, and partners. Super Early Bird registration is open: $675 per person through November 6, 2026.
Head Start East 2027 Annual Conference
Attend, Present, or Exhibit
Attend
The Royal Sonesta San Juan · Puerto Rico
Keynotes, breakout sessions on classroom practice, leadership, family support, and fiscal management, plus evening events with live music. Returning 2026 organizations get $50 off per attendee.
Present
Share What Works in Your Program
We're looking for practical, interactive 90-minute sessions from people who do this work every day. You can present in English or Spanish. Proposals are due December 4, 2026.
Exhibit
Meet Head Start Leaders in Person
Tabletop exhibits and sponsorships put your organization in front of the directors, managers, and program teams who choose the tools and services their programs use.
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 36 states and territories, including 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
Apr 12, 2027 – Apr 15, 2027
Head Start East 2027 Annual Conference
The Royal Sonesta San Juan · Puerto Rico
Register Now →