Los Angeles, CA, April 29, 2025 – For nearly six decades, Head Start has served as a cornerstone of support for millions of children and families across the nation, providing vital early childhood education, comprehensive family services, and a crucial pathway to school readiness. The Los Angeles Education Partnership (LAEP) recognizes the profound and lasting impact of Early Head Start (EHS) programs within our own community, offering both home-based and center-based options that empower parents, nurture young learners and strengthen families.
More than just a preschool program, Early Head Start acts as a vital community hub, connecting families to essential resources such as health screenings, parental support networks, and pathways to economic stability. By addressing the holistic needs of children from their earliest years, EHS lays a strong foundation for future academic success and overall well-being. Moreover, these programs provide critical childcare support, enabling parents, particularly mothers, to participate in the workforce or pursue educational opportunities, fostering greater economic mobility for families throughout Los Angeles County.
“At LAEP, we witness daily the transformative power of Early Head Start,” said Dr. Dawn A. Kurtz, CEO of LAEP. “From the earliest stages of development, these programs provide crucial support that not only prepares children for school but also empowers parents and strengthens the entire family unit. Protecting Early Head Start is not just about preserving a program; it’s about investing in the future of our children and the vitality of our communities.”
LAEP believes in the fundamental value of Early Head Start in promoting equitable access to early childhood education and providing a comprehensive support system for families. By ensuring that children from low-income backgrounds receive the early learning experiences they need, EHS plays a vital role in reducing learning disparities and fostering long-term success. Furthermore, the wraparound services offered by EHS, including health screenings, nutritional support, and family engagement initiatives, create a nurturing environment where both children and parents can thrive. To further support and celebrate the families engaged in Early Head Start, LAEP is excited to host upcoming events that showcase the program’s impact and provide valuable opportunities for our community. LAEP’s community members can look forward to the upcoming Early Head Start Spring Graduation ceremonies. Beginning this Friday and continuing through Monday, Cinco de Mayo, LAEP will honor the achievements of two classes of Early Head Start graduates. These young achievers and their families will gather for special ceremonies at local community spaces in the Inglewood and South LA, where they will receive diplomas and congratulations from LAEP staff and community members. These events promise to be heartwarming celebrations of the children’s hard work and progress.
Adding to the excitement, LAEP is also thrilled to offer an exclusive opportunity for EHS parents to engage in healthy cooking education. Renowned celebrity chef, Chef Das, will be leading a special event featuring live cooking demonstrations, delicious samples, take-home recipes, exciting giveaways, raffles, and much more.
The EHS program’s impact extends beyond the children, enriching parent skills and empowering them to become early childhood and educational advocates. The future is bright for these graduating students and their families.
As Los Angeles navigates the ongoing challenges in early childhood education, the protection of vital programs like Early Head Start is paramount. LAEP remains committed to its work in providing high-quality EHS options, recognizing the profound and lasting benefits these programs bring to our youngest learners, their families, and the broader community. The continued support and preservation of Early Head Start is an investment in a more equitable and prosperous future for all of Los Angeles. Get more details on the EHS graduation and Chef Das event by contacting EHS directly at (213) 622-5237 ext. 223. Learn how LAEP’s programs are making a difference and how you can contribute by visiting laep.org.
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About Los Angeles Education Partnership
The Los Angeles Education Partnership (LAEP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to advance educational equity. Together with families, schools, and the community, LAEP facilitates access to and opportunities for quality educational and wellness practices so that children thrive from diapers to diplomas. For more information about Los Angeles Education Partnership, please visit www.laep.org.