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HeadStart.gov Archive

Vaccine and Mask Requirements to Mitigate the Spread of COVID-19 in Head Start Programs

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. Explore how the requirements announced in the Interim Final Rule with Comment Period (IFC) will help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Check out the FAQs to learn more about mask and vaccine requirement for Head Start programs.

Masked children and teacher around a table.

Federal Register Notice on Vaccine and Masking Requirements

The IFC adds new provisions to the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in Head Start programs.
Teacher and child masked in the classroom.

Preamble to the Final Rule on Vaccine and Mask Requirements

Read this Preamble to the IFC for more details about the research and data that supported our decisions.
A properly masked adult helping masked child swing from the monkey bars in an outdoor playground.

Revised Head Start Program Performance Standards on Staff Vaccination and Universal Masking

Effective Nov. 30, 2021, the Head Start Program Performance Standards will reflect staff vaccination and universal masking requirements, as shown in the PDF.
Children playing outdoors.

Summary of Vaccine and Mask Requirements to Mitigate the Spread of COVID-19 in Head Start Programs

This fact sheet describes the requirements announced in the IFC and how they will help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. It includes background information and outlines exemptions, timelines, and justifications for masking and vaccination in Head Start programs.
Teacher and child using a mask while playing outdoors.

Universal Masking and COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement FAQs

Find answers to common questions about the mask and vaccine requirements for Head Start programs. Learn more about the  implementation details and exemptions announced in the IFC.
Masked adults working together at a desk following masking guidelines.

Webinar: New Standards for Vaccination and Masking to Reduce Transmission of COVID-19

Watch Office of Head Start leadership discuss new HSPPS for masking and COVID-19 vaccination requirements, and the timelines, exceptions, and exemptions for each.
Child wearing mask in playground

Webinar: FAQs on the IFC Vaccine and Masking Requirements

In this webinar, hear from Dr. Futrell and OHS staff as they walk through FAQs related to the new HSPPS requiring masking and COVID-19 vaccination.
Masked staff member and child reading a book.

Part 2: Universal Masking and COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement FAQs

Listen to Dr. Futrell and Office of Head Start staff address updated FAQs related to the Head Start Program Performance Standards requiring masking and COVID-19 vaccination.

 

Explore resources supporting vaccination and mask requirements.

Read more:

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