Uncertainty over Head Start funding puts parents and teachers on edge

Jackie Stephens' daughters Mercy and Hope both attended free child care and preschool through Head Start, and she says they've thrived. Jackie has gotten help herself through the program, with breastfeeding, nutritional advice and parenting.






But now Jackie’s worried. Because earlier this year, President Donald Trump indicated he wanted to eliminate all funding - $12.3 billion - for Head Start.






Guests:







• Jackie Stephens, Parent, Sharon Neese Early Learning Center, Sacramento





• Timeisha Seymore, Parent, Sharon Neese Early Learning Center, Sacramento





• Annabel Stofer, Teacher, Sharon Neese Early Learning Center, Sacramento





• Diana Lambert, Reporter, EdSource







Read more from EdSource:







• Head Start allies wait, worry about possible funding cuts (https://edsource.org/2025/head-start-...)





• Head Start offers path to success for children, families (https://edsource.org/2025/head-start-...)







Education Beat is a weekly podcast, hosted by EdSource’s Zaidee Stavely and produced by Coby McDonald.






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