Parents holding child while walking in a field.

About the Collaboration

Collaboration offices, funded by a grant from the Administration for Child and Families, create a visible presence for Head Start at the state level and assist in the development of multi-agency and public-private partnerships among Head Start and other interested stakeholders.

Effective July 1, 2021, the California Head Start Collaboration Office (CHSCO), along with many childcare programs, was transferred from the California Department of Education (CDE) Early Education Division (EED) to the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). [Early Childhood Development Act of 2020 (Senate Bill 98, Chapter 24, Statutes of 2020)]

CHSCO works closely with:

CDSS – Child Care and Development Division
CDE – Early Education Division
Other state departments and other organizations and agencies in the childcare and development community
Head Start California
Region 9 Head Start Association
California Head Start Recipients

Current priorities for CHSCO, as required by the grant from the Office of Head Start

Collaborate with state systems to align early care and education services and supports for children and families prenatally to age 5.
Work with State efforts to collect data on early childhood programs to guide decision-making and improve child and family outcomes.
Support the expansion and access of high-quality workforce and career development opportunities for staff.
Coordinate with school systems to ensure continuity and alignment across programs, as appropriate.
Regional Priorities.

Staff

Director

Ristyn Woolley

Ristyn has over 24 years working in Early Learning and Care in many capacities including teaching, research and publications, policy, mental health, inclusion, and Head Start. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Pacific and Masters in Early Childhood Educational Leadership from Mills College. When not working she enjoys spending time with her nieces and nephews, doing puzzles, skiing, and attending concerts.

Associate Governmental Program Analyst

Brianne Rood

Brianne has over seven years of experience working as a program analyst and five years working in the Early Learning and Care space, focusing on policy, education, nutrition, and tribes.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Science and Education from San Jose State University. When not working she enjoys spending time with her husband, two daughters, and dog.