Governor Tina Kotek has officially proclaimed May 18, 2025, as Head Start’s 60th Anniversary in Oregon. This declaration honors the enduring impact of Head Start, a program that has empowered over 40 million children and families nationwide since its inception in 1965. You can see the official proclamation here.
"For six decades, millions of children nationwide, and tens of thousands of children here in Oregon, have had a brighter future because of Head Start," Governor Kotek stated in a video to honor the . "This anniversary milestone reflects the vision, dedication and heart of thousands of people who've worked over the years to support children and families."
Head Start began as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty and continues to have a lasting impact on those who have been impacted by the program. By providing comprehensive early learning, health, and family support services, Head Start continues provide a lifeline our most vulnerable children and their families, helping them to break the cycle of poverty. Head Start's history serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to support and invest in early childhood education programs that lay the foundation for lifelong success.
