CALIFORNIA
Head Start State Collaboration Office
Effective July 15, 2022, the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Xavier Becerra has extended the public health emergency that was initially declared on Jan. 27, 2020, and has been renewed every 90 days. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has deeply impacted Head Start and Early Head Start programs, enrolled children and families, and their communities. The Secretary has the authority, under Section 319 of the Public Health Service Act, to determine that a public health emergency exists. Once a declaration is made, it remains in effect for 90 days and can be extended.
Effective Nov. 30, 2021, the Head Start Program Performance Standards reflects staff vaccination and universal masking requirements. Requiring all Head Start staff, some contractors, and volunteers to be vaccinated against COVID-19, and universal masking for all individuals 2 years of age and older, is critical as we work together to move toward fully in-person comprehensive services by providing healthy and safe environments for everyone. Check out the collection of Head Start resources on vaccine and masking to learn more about how the requirements announced in the Interim Final Rule with Comment Period (IFC) will help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
COVID-19 information and contacts
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For CDE state-funded related questions regarding circumstances surrounding COVID-19, please use the designated email box: ELCDEmergency@cde.ca.gov
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For any CDSS funded related questions regarding circumstances surrounding COVID-19, please go to Home | California Dept. of Social Services
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For any County questions or information related to COVID-19 please go to Hotlines and local info – Coronavirus COVID-19 Response
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For any OHS-specific questions related to Head Start programs please check in with your Program Specialist.
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You can find up-to-date COVID information for Head Start on the ECKLC website.